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Iowa => Ice Fishing Iowa => Topic started by: Big Blue on Dec 25, 2007, 05:53 PM

Title: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Dec 25, 2007, 05:53 PM
I was out this morning on Clear Lake from 6:00 - 9:00 and caught my limit of walleye and one nice perch. I was using a hot pink lead head jig tipped with a minnow just NE of Dodges Point. After 8:00 it went dead. I also caught quite a few dink walleyes. I didn't catch a single Yellow Bass which I thought was odd. The ice was 14" thick. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ap2049 on Dec 25, 2007, 08:44 PM
Went out today and moved from Gilmore. The last three times I had not caught a thing on Gilmores.  Their is a lot pop ups by the island
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: original_iceman on Dec 26, 2007, 07:45 AM
Yep, go to the island if your looking for yellows...   that is my suggestion.   ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Icey Tom on Dec 26, 2007, 11:06 AM
fished Gilmore's last nite for a few hours.  Didn't catch or even seen anything on electronics.  Didn't help with someone running their generator full time.  Time to try somewhere different..
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ejensen on Dec 26, 2007, 12:11 PM
I may be going tomorrow and was wondering the best way to get to the island? I'll be coming on 18 to 35. Any help would be appreciated.

Ed
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Dec 26, 2007, 12:49 PM
When you get to Clear Lake take exit 193 on I-35. Turn left at the bottom of the ramp, when you get to the second stop sign  turn left onto South Shore Drive and just keep following the lake  around to the south side. When you get to Bayside Ave. turn right and it will take you to the island.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ejensen on Dec 26, 2007, 01:02 PM
When you get to Clear Lake take exit 193 on I-35. Turn left at the bottom of the ramp, when you get to the second stop sign  turn left onto South Shore Drive and just keep following the lake  around to the south side. When you get to Bayside Ave. turn right and it will take you to the island.

Thanks for the quick reply, should be able to find it now!!! :thumbsup:

Ed
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crowbait on Dec 26, 2007, 01:36 PM
Ed,

We might make it up there tomorrow also......we'll be in a QF III with a black can-am on front.

Frank
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ejensen on Dec 26, 2007, 03:59 PM
Frank, I'm not going to make it until Sat. now, I forgot I have a chiropractor app. tomorrow and need to go, screwed up left shoulder, so I'm going Sat. since my wife is working!!!

Ed
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 26, 2007, 09:34 PM
Shiiiit no one is even close to gillmores. :o....I dunno what everyone is doing out there not catching any fish.  I managed my limit tonight on the east end of the lake in a lesser known spot one 20incher too plus 30-40 smaller ones. Had to hop around all day to get on them though. Went thru alotta bait in the process.

The word/phrase for the day is "chubby darter" :laugh:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: walleyes4*u on Dec 26, 2007, 09:39 PM
Frank, I'm not going to make it until Sat. now, I forgot I have a chiropractor app. tomorrow and need to go, screwed up left shoulder, so I'm going Sat. since my wife is working!!!

Ed

Ed might see you up there saturday  ;D Fished Brushy today caught a few crappy's  ;)

CrappieBuster, sent you a PM the other day. Haven't heard back. I got the info I needed from Joe Kalvig
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 26, 2007, 10:11 PM
sorry bout that........ :-\

Just got home today from christmas festivities i didnt have time to make a "valid" reply.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: walleyes4*u on Dec 26, 2007, 10:32 PM
No problem. Was suppose to come up today and hook up with Joe this afternoon. Son want to hit Brushy for some crappie action, well he found it. He was the only one who could catch them  :) I believe we are coming up to Clear saturday. Never ice fished it before. Have any tips would be appreciated  ;) Pm me if you want
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Dec 27, 2007, 11:37 AM
Gonna be there Saturday morning.  Whats the low down on the yellows CB?  Id like to catch the eyes too, but I dont expect anyone to give up their spots.  Just mainly interested in a nice bucket of yellows.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bob32racing on Dec 27, 2007, 12:36 PM
Theres not much going on at gilmores. I fished at farmers last night and picked up 10-12 small walleyes. Two keepers, and a few yellows. The only problem is around 3pm that place is a nightmare with all the people coming out to fish. They had good ice i suppose 12-14 i drove my diesel out there last night and this morning and there was no problems. Just a small heeve on shore to get over.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 27, 2007, 10:58 PM
Lotsa pressure on the lake thats for sure,wont be long till we get into that mid winter slump.  Managed my limit tonight again wasnt another shack within 300 yards of me. Heard from a few people that the yellows were biting near the Island.  Looks like there was alot of trucks/shacks out off the island today in the 18 foot hole and the mid-lake reef.   Alot of people are setting up on or near Billys and the 18 foot hole near there also.  One thing I can say though you dont have to be in with the crowds to catch nice fish and limit out beings the fish are still holding fairly shallow.  Power augers going off every 5 minutes gets kinda annoying :laugh:

Ice has been varying between 11-15 inches should be able to pretty much drive anywhere now..

tight lines :tipup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Dec 28, 2007, 12:52 AM
WHERE DID MY GPS GO CRAPPIEBUSTER >:( 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: brandon mohr _42 on Dec 28, 2007, 10:33 AM
thinking about coming up tonight just wondeing how the evening and night bite are for yellows are eyes
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: walleyes4*u on Dec 28, 2007, 06:09 PM
CB, will be coming up for the night bite saturday  ;D I believe I know where Gilmore's is at and might possibly see you out on the ice saturday night  ;) I'll be in a Eskimo Quick Flip III. I finally talked the wife into her first ice fishing trip, so I hope they are biting to get her hooked  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ejensen on Dec 28, 2007, 07:12 PM
Good luck Kraig, maybe I'll see you before I leave.

Ed
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: walleyes4*u on Dec 28, 2007, 07:34 PM
Good luck Kraig, maybe I'll see you before I leave.

Ed

Hope to run into you  ;) I will be parking in the same parking spot that you will be in. I hope she catches some to keep her hooked on hardwater. She already loves open water  ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ejensen on Dec 28, 2007, 07:55 PM
I hope she does also, my wife is addicted to ice fishing, we are going out next Wed., her next day off.

Ed
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: roberts on Dec 28, 2007, 08:08 PM
we will be ther in the moring    is any thing going at farmer beach ?  let me know
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 29, 2007, 03:43 AM
Limited out again tonight thats 3 nights in a row.  Had to clean my buddys limit too because he was to hammered to weild a knife :-\.  If you see one oddly placed shack out there thats me.  :laugh:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: roberts on Dec 29, 2007, 05:46 AM
i will be looking for you  we are going to farmers first and then who knows   lol
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coketeck on Dec 29, 2007, 08:56 PM
Limited out again tonight thats 3 nights in a row.  Had to clean my buddys limit too because he was to hammered to weild a knife :-\.  If you see one oddly placed shack out there thats me.  :laugh:
Save some of those fish for the rest of us  lol
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Oldbear on Dec 30, 2007, 03:44 AM
ejensen, sounds like you guys had a fun trip on Saturday between the walleyes and the yellows.  See ya in a couple weeks at Brushy.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: iowaboy on Dec 30, 2007, 05:05 AM
Oldbear......you should have come up!!! We really got into the yellows. I would guess our little group caught between 100-150 yellows. Some were really nice ones around the 12 inch mark and alot of 8 inchers. I tell ya you still get a nice hunk of meat off the 8 inches!! Only two bonus keeper walleyes were caught.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: roberts on Dec 30, 2007, 07:09 AM
yellows   we got like 6  all moring long with 4 shacks    so where was you guys at ?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ejensen on Dec 30, 2007, 07:19 AM
We were between the point west of the island and farmers. This was my first trip there on the ice and I need to go there more. We started just east of the island and only had one guy catch a keeper walleye, 21". It was a blast and those yellows really put up a fight. I don't know how many I lost at the bottom of the hole trying to get them turned up it.

Ed
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: walleyes4*u on Dec 30, 2007, 07:25 AM
We were between the point west of the island and farmers. This was my first trip there on the ice and I need to go there more. We started just east of the island and only had one guy catch a keeper walleye, 21". It was a blast and those yellows really put up a fight. I don't know how many I lost at the bottom of the hole trying to get them turned up it.

Ed

Glad to hear you guys had a great time  ;)  Let me know when you are ready to go again  8)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: roberts on Dec 30, 2007, 07:43 AM
i am glad  to hear some one had some fun     i am thinking of going back up there later on today    the wife wants go   lol   we went fishing at mains grove last night    got some blue gills and that was it
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: iowaboy on Dec 30, 2007, 05:43 PM
Ed.....fished the same spot today we caught fish at yesterday and only marked one fish!! We went over and turned Gilmore's into swiss cheese and never found nothing there either. I noticed alot of the permanents are leaving Farmers and everywhere else and stacking up north of the Island.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ejensen on Dec 30, 2007, 07:59 PM
I'm sure glad we went yesterday. Maybe the pressure is starting to get to them, there were a lot of people out there yesterday!

Ed
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: roberts on Dec 30, 2007, 08:18 PM
well the big puddle  paid off  today    we had a lot of fun   40 yellows    verry few was small   lots of dink walleyes   we did not have any keepers walleyes  to day  but that was fine    just had a blast  the wife i think is hooked   lol  oh know   no free time for me     any ways   we just tryed some new and it work out for us   my brother was there also he got more than what we did   but i was out to have fun   and the pork chops i cooked was verry good also   
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Dec 31, 2007, 06:56 AM
heading up there in about 30 min.  Going to try NW to N of the island.  Hopefully will get some.  We will be in a black frabill flip over.  It is a new one.  It is comfortable to fish in but a BEAR to pull out on the ice.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: walleyes4*u on Dec 31, 2007, 08:05 AM
Saturday evening we setup NW of the island. Caught alot of walleye, but they were all just a little short. Son had one in the hole that would have been a keeper, but it came unbuttoned and made it back down.  Good luck crappie98
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Dec 31, 2007, 03:24 PM
Started out NW of the Island today in 12 foot of water.  Went out to where some moron decided that since his lantern glass was broke he woudl just leave the whole thing on the ice.  Fished there for about 1 1/2 hours with no luck saw one bluegill on the camera that was it nothing on the vex.  Moved to the west I believe that is farmers bay not sure the old man knows what everything is called.  Drove out there fished for another 2 hours with no bite at all.  Decided to call it a day.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: roberts on Jan 01, 2008, 01:52 PM
where  did crappie buster  go did he fall in or is he in jail    lol   
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bob32racing on Jan 03, 2008, 01:15 PM
Any fish being caught any where?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 03, 2008, 11:04 PM
The pressure and weather has been getting to them.  :'( Getting pretty tight lipped they are.  Lotsa dinks to weed thru.  Been struggling with the bottle flu and going through all my minnows on dinks!  may as well be in the slammer......prolly eat better :laugh:

Hopefully when we get this weather stabilized we'll turn them lookers into biters ehhh?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ducky on Jan 04, 2008, 04:44 AM
We'll be up there Saturday morning by the island, hope to see some of you guys.  I'll b in a green eskimo tent, driving a red F150.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: roberts on Jan 04, 2008, 05:30 AM
we are head up there  saturday  moring   good to hear crappy buster  again  glade to see that he still fishing  we will be over by farmes  beach   white  ford f-150
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tazzzer on Jan 04, 2008, 08:32 PM
    hello  everyone .. I have never been to clear lake .. this is going to be my first time .. like to try to catch
some yellows. if there biting .. i have a map of the lake but not sure where farmers beach is .. I hope for a little advice where to get me started there . I'm from grundy center about an 1 1/2 drive , so I plan to be there late morning ..plan to make it a all day in to the evening
 :tipup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 04, 2008, 09:21 PM
Picked up my first lunge "ever" tonight.  Even though he aint a trophy still was fun catching. :laugh:
4lbfireline and chubby darter.  Boy theyre purty :o
(http://i12.tinypic.com/6qbmzwi.jpg)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: roberts on Jan 05, 2008, 02:43 AM
good job
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishnfool-3 on Jan 05, 2008, 05:27 AM
any eyes last night?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 05, 2008, 09:20 AM
Yep managed 2 keepers friday night.  Lotsa smalleyes though. :-\
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crowbait on Jan 05, 2008, 11:16 AM
CB,

Congratulations on your "FIRST"!!! :thumbsup: :bow: :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap:

Frank
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Jan 05, 2008, 01:06 PM
Hey crappiebuster what color of chubby darter are you using? 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 05, 2008, 01:11 PM
Thanks.......I needed to get one of them sooner or later... :o

Hot Perch #4 chubby darter.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: roberts on Jan 06, 2008, 07:17 AM
so did the yellows bit on saturday we was up there at farmes and i only got one   
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: redman on Jan 06, 2008, 09:20 AM
 hey crappiebuster nice musky  we fished  from noon till six on sat nw of island no yellows  ??? and 2 little walleyes  :unsure:
 we run into ducky  :) nice meeting ya

      redman
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 06, 2008, 02:59 PM
Couldnt keep the smaller walleyes off my lures yesterday.  Managed a 16 with some weird growth on it that got IMMEDIETLY returned but other than that it was slowwwwww.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tazzzer on Jan 07, 2008, 03:50 PM
  sat. I made it to clear lake around noon . when to the west end of the Island didn't have luck. until around 4:30 put on a red hook with a white blade ..live minnow .. then I started to reel in the yellows . 15 most was 10" to 11" I was really thilll my first yellows I have caught.. and one eye just over 16" ..
really got to make another trip some week end ..
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: wallyhunter on Jan 07, 2008, 05:58 PM
Hey crappiebuster, I am planning on traveling up this weekend with a few friends and our sons

will fish Saturday until late and Sunday early morning til about 1 or 2pm.

Please keep us updated on the ice conditions ;D

If it gets bad we will cancel and fish closer to home - wait a bit longer ..... my son is dying to set up the tip-ups for walleye.

Maybe catch a few perch and crappies while we wait on a flag :tipup: :tipup: :tipup:!!!!

U da man....Tight lines!!!
:o
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 07, 2008, 07:46 PM
Ice is still hanging in there.  Theres good ice under that slush so yeh I wouldnt worry about coming up this weekend at all.  Seen many 3/4 tons and 1 tons on the ice yet today.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Icey Tom on Jan 07, 2008, 10:03 PM
Nice picture Crappiebuster and nice Musky too...  :o How big was it?  Bet that was a blast to catch and pull up the hole...

The ice was 12-14 inches at Clear Lake all last week that I fished, so I would not worry other than to make sure your boots are waterproof, for anyone fishing over there the next few days, unless we get cold again.  Bad thing is we'll all be slipping and sliding all over the place when it does cool down again.  Bring your cleats. ;D

Tom
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Jan 08, 2008, 03:37 AM
Limited out again tonight thats 3 nights in a row.  Had to clean my buddys limit too because he was to hammered to weild a knife :-\.  If you see one oddly placed shack out there thats me.  :laugh:

ONE EXPENSIVE NIGHT >:( AT LEAST I STILL HAVE 9 FINGERS :o AND IT WAS NOT THE JIGGIN HAND! THANKS FOR TAKEN ME TO THE ER CRAPPIEBUSTER :P I AM SURE WE LEFT A NICE BLOOD TRAIL!!! NEXT TIME YOUR CLEANING ALL THE FISH WHEN WHERE TRASHED! NO MORE WILD TURKEY :(
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Jan 08, 2008, 03:39 AM
NICE MUSKY! GLAD HE DIDNT GET MY REMAINING FINGERS
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bob32racing on Jan 08, 2008, 08:27 AM
Was out again last night and picked up 8 yellows, and a few smaller walleyes. Didnt get a bite until round 5. I will be back out again tonight off farmers ill give you a report again tomorrow
.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Jan 09, 2008, 12:35 AM
THE LAKE IS A NIGHT BITE... DON'T WAIST YOUR TIME DURING THE DAY!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bob32racing on Jan 09, 2008, 09:31 AM
Only a few yellows last night, and 2-3 small walleyes.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Jan 09, 2008, 10:43 AM
What location on the lake are you catching them? I'm anxious to get back out I 've been sick the last 2 weeks.  :wacko:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bob32racing on Jan 09, 2008, 10:52 AM
I am still at farmers, picking up yellows. Also some walleyes, lot of small ones but a keeper or two.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Jan 10, 2008, 08:20 PM
I was out from dusk on for a couple of hours. I picked up 5 small yellows at dusk and 1 dink walleye after it got dark.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bob32racing on Jan 10, 2008, 08:27 PM
Two keepers and a dozen yellows. also a 13 1/2 inch silver.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bob32racing on Jan 11, 2008, 07:05 PM
15 more yellows tonight
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Jan 11, 2008, 08:37 PM
Still fishing Farmers?  Im more interested in the yellows than the eyes.  We did well the last time, but thats been almost 2 weeks.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: wallyhunter on Jan 11, 2008, 09:57 PM
hows the ice - we are coming up tomorrow - are folks driving on after last week's thaw? ???
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Jan 12, 2008, 05:09 AM
The ice is 14" and yes they are still driving on it.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: perch fisher on Jan 12, 2008, 10:09 PM
so who was the big winner in the tournament today?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: lookn4slabs on Jan 12, 2008, 10:26 PM
 ??? May be a dumb ? What does a yellow look like? Can anyone post a pic?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: whip2 on Jan 12, 2008, 11:08 PM
Nope, they are talking Yellow Bass.
whip2
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishnfool-3 on Jan 13, 2008, 08:19 AM
dont know who they drew for the winners? There was not a single fish iced!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Icey Tom on Jan 13, 2008, 10:00 AM
??? May be a dumb ? What does a yellow look like? Can anyone post a pic?

(http://)<a href="http://s272.photobucket.com/albums/jj188/iceytom/?action=view&current=IMG_0036.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj188/iceytom/IMG_0036.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>

There ya go, some walleyes with some Yellow Bass from early ice....
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Icey Tom on Jan 13, 2008, 10:02 AM
OOPPPPPS. let me try and fix that, been awhile posting pics....
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 13, 2008, 11:09 AM
Wonder how many people were fishing?  And not a single fish.  Tisk tisk :laugh:

Looks like them boys could use some schoolin :D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Icey Tom on Jan 13, 2008, 11:31 AM
??? May be a dumb ? What does a yellow look like? Can anyone post a pic?

Here are some walleyee an yellow bass I caught at early ice. 
(http://)(http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj188/iceytom/IMG_0036.jpg)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: lookn4slabs on Jan 13, 2008, 04:48 PM
Thanks Icey Tom. Kinda shaped like a crappie. Do they eat as good as a crappie?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Jan 13, 2008, 05:09 PM
Thanks Icey Tom. Kinda shaped like a crappie. Do they eat as good as a crappie?

No, they eat much better.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Icey Tom on Jan 13, 2008, 09:22 PM
Thanks Icey Tom. Kinda shaped like a crappie. Do they eat as good as a crappie?
Just as good I'd say....

Bob, thanks for the info.  My grandson and I fished a bit west almost out from Dodges but not quite.  Few permanent houses there.  Managed 3 13" eyes and and one 10" yellow in 10fow from 4 -6pm, vertical jig with whole minnow is all they would bite, when they would bite.  Marked fish and had them look but the bite wasn't goin on.  FYI, over a week ago I fished North east of the Island a bit and half way across the lake almost, caught 17 keeper eyes in 1 hr.  They were hungry and I was sitting right on top of them.  Saw a lot of shacks by the open water north of Farmers this evening.  Good luck on the move and keep us posted..  thanks again,   Tom 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coldfisherman on Jan 14, 2008, 08:27 AM
??? May be a dumb ? What does a yellow look like? Can anyone post a pic?

11 1/2 incher from off bayside.Caught some nice fat ones this year.

(http://www.hotboatpics.com/pics/data/500/3371P1010070.jpg)

Peace Man!
CESAR
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crowbait on Jan 14, 2008, 09:59 AM
Shawn,

Just wondering if the water in the bottle is froooozen ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coldfisherman on Jan 14, 2008, 10:15 AM
Shawn,

Just wondering if the water in the bottle is froooozen ;D

Hiya Frank! ;D

No Kemosabee, Firewater not freeze. Keep coldfisherman warm!  :icefish:

Hope to see ya out there

Peace Man!
CESAR
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Icey Tom on Jan 14, 2008, 11:39 AM
Hiya Frank! ;D

No Kemosabee, Firewater not freeze. Keep coldfisherman warm!  :icefish:

Hope to see ya out there

Peace Man!
CESAR

hey Cesar.  So that's whats happen to all the fish I been lookin for.  Nice to see somebody catchin em.  I caught 3 13" and one yellow last night.  Next time I get over I'll look for the green shack.  I'm not real sure where bayside is though..        tight lines          Tom
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coldfisherman on Jan 14, 2008, 01:12 PM
hey Cesar.  So that's whats happen to all the fish I been lookin for.  Nice to see somebody catchin em.  I caught 3 13" and one yellow last night.  Next time I get over I'll look for the green shack.  I'm not real sure where bayside is though..        tight lines          Tom

Tom,

We are straight out from the DNR building 6/10s of a mile. Right past where the tournament was.
Bayside is where the old amusement park used to be. We're a bit west of that. Good luck!

Peace Man! 8)
CESAR
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bob32racing on Jan 14, 2008, 08:59 PM
I am out about where you are, off bayside. Ive been staying out there the last few nights, and picking up lots of small walleyes through out the night and a few yellows. I think its a little to cold to stay out tonight but i will be back out tomorrow. Good luck.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Icey Tom on Jan 15, 2008, 10:13 AM
I am out about where you are, off bayside. Ive been staying out there the last few nights, and picking up lots of small walleyes through out the night and a few yellows. I think its a little to cold to stay out tonight but i will be back out tomorrow. Good luck.

hey Bob.  Last time I was out all night, the walleye bite started at midnight.  But I think it just a matter of where you are and if their moving thru.  Wonder if all the shacks by the aerator are doing anygood.  Have you heard anything? 

tight lines..........   Tom
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bob32racing on Jan 15, 2008, 05:11 PM
I havet heard much from around the bubblers, still around the island, and a few at farmers.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Icey Tom on Jan 15, 2008, 08:38 PM
Too cold and windy for me out there.  I don't have any "firewater" to keep me warm.  A week ago the wind did a job on a couple of my aluminum adjustable poles for the shack.  Clam needs to design there stuff to flex abit.  The wind turned them into big C shaped poles that no longer adjust.  Going to design my own replacements with some fiberglass poles or laminated wood maybe.  If it's not windy I can still use it.   Good luck to all you diehards. I'm staying home until it warms up, or until I can't stand it anymore and have to get out there again just to try and get that "big" one.   tight lines.....  and thanks for the report Bob          Tom
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bob32racing on Jan 15, 2008, 08:53 PM
Ya it looks like i will be pushing some snow now. So i wont be out for a little while. I agree its a little to cold for me.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 16, 2008, 09:41 PM
The bite is picking back up over there again....Pressure finnaly dropped barometric and the fishing pressure. :tipup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 2bodie2 on Jan 18, 2008, 07:43 AM
we fished by the open water on the north side of the lake on Sunday evening. Pretty slow.  Did catch one keeper and had 3 keepers, 2 went back in the hole and the other broke the line..thinking may be too cold this sunday evening. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Jan 18, 2008, 06:29 PM
Can you still get out on the lake after the snow and wind?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coldfisherman on Jan 18, 2008, 09:09 PM
Can you still get out on the lake after the snow and wind?

Oh no! No one can get on the lake here. You people from out of town should just stay home and I'll tell you when it's safe to come back. Much too dangerous right now! ::) ::) ::) ::) The fish aren't biting anyway. I will personally test the dangerous fishing areas and tell you when they start biting again.

You can believe me because I AM A fisherman.

Peace Man! 8)
CESAR
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishnfool-3 on Jan 19, 2008, 11:26 AM
tournament over there today? Wish I could get out of the house! Last night was slow at the river.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 19, 2008, 12:37 PM
They should have the ramps plowed out good by now.  Some purty big drifts out there boys. :o
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Icey Tom on Jan 19, 2008, 01:12 PM
Wow, hardly any wind here in town.  Hope it's not too bad at the lake.  I have a family thing this afternoon, so maybe try it at the lake tonight or at least tomorrow. 

Cesar, thanks for all your concern and watching out for the rest of us ;D ;D ;D

see ya on the ice.            Tom
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bob32racing on Jan 20, 2008, 09:54 PM
ill get out and plow some ramps tomorrow. also caught 2 limits of eyes and many more thirteens. good luck im going out again in the morning if im not pushin snow.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Icey Tom on Jan 21, 2008, 02:34 PM
thanks Bob,  All I could catch was 13 inchers last night and they bit till 8:30 and I said the heck with it and went home.  I tried NE of island and way out, was in 12 fow.  The bite was really light too.  It was a nice evening to fish though, I didn't even put up the shack.   
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: onemore on Jan 22, 2008, 07:23 AM
I fished the lake saturday and the day bite was slow.  Caught about a dozen yellow bass and had real nice lunge to the hole but broke me off.  2lb test  thought it was a big cat.  night bite was awsome :o  caught about 30 eyes one limit and one short of the brothers.  missed alot and lost even more you need to check it out until this last time i have never caught anything worth while on trips out of town. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Icey Tom on Jan 22, 2008, 02:23 PM
NICE GOING ONEMORE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.  SOUNDS LIKE A GREAT DAY OF FISHING TO ME....SOMETIMES YOU HAVE TO BE AT THE RIGHT PLACE AT THE RIGHT TIME.....   TIGHT LINES, TOM
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishnfool-3 on Jan 22, 2008, 04:55 PM
would you mind telling us how deep you were fishing?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Icey Tom on Jan 24, 2008, 10:17 AM
Well I couldn't stand it anymore.  Haven't fished since Sunday night, so I went to Clear Lake after work last nite.  Got on at the hatchery and drove west along the snowmobile trail.  Snow is getting deep and drifting.  wanted to try the reef on north shore but was afraid I'd get stuck and there's not much traffic there.  Headed back to the point and then across the lake and ended up N.E. of the island. What a ride across the lake with all the drifts!!!!!!!!!  Ended up catching a limit of walleyes and one short one.  Got them all on chubby darter, couldn't get them to take the kastmaster or anyother offering.  Got the last one at 9:45, a 16 incher.  Had alot of lookers after that but couldn't get em to bite.  My heater couldn't keep the ice from skimming over the holes and the ice pebbles off my line, but at -11, at least I was out of the wind in the Clam and I was fishing.  Looking forward to fishing Rock Creek this weekend.Taking 2 teenage boys and 7yo granddaughter if weather warms up abit.  If not I'd like to fish for a mess of Yellows at Clear Lake.  Anybody still catching the yellows with any success????                FYI, use a 4 wheel vehicle on the lake unless you find some plowed areas.  Tom
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: anderson_dc on Jan 25, 2008, 08:12 AM
What is the most ice you guys have ever cut through on Clear Lake before?

Also, how much ice are you cutting through lately?  Has it reached 20" yet?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Jan 25, 2008, 08:34 AM
I stopped at the Lakeside Pitstop a couple of days ago and he said it was 20". I haven't been out for a couple of weeks but I'm going tonite.  :clap:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bull_Gill_Mike on Jan 25, 2008, 10:12 AM
Hey guys whats goin on?  Gonna head up that way tomorrow afternoon and try and hit the night bite.  Just wondering if theres any action?  I haven't been up for about 3 weeks, last time I went to farmers and picked up a few eyes.  Was thinking about heading out towards the island tomorrow.  Any reports/advice would be appreciated!! Thanks guys see ya on the ice  :tipup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 25, 2008, 12:03 PM
Ive seen 32 inches at Clear lake about 10-12 yrs ago.  Hand augered two holes too!  Shoulda seen the heeves that year! :o

Hope you got a big fullsize 4x4 guys.  The ramps should be okay by now but the main lake is pretty deep and drifted.  Island would be less drifted in then the East end though.  Just a heads up.  Might wanna bring a shovel just in case :D.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Jan 25, 2008, 07:52 PM
I wouldn't worry about the ice.  We were out there in an F250 powerstroke after christmas and it held us just fine.  That is close to 8000lbs. with all the stuff we have in the truck.  Good luck to everyone heading up there.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Jan 25, 2008, 08:43 PM
I just got home from the lake. I had a real nice walleye on but lost it when I tried to pull it through the hole. I also caught 3 yellows at dusk. The ice is 21" thick. If you don't have a 4 wheel drive vehicle I wouldn't drive out.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 25, 2008, 08:53 PM
F.Y.I
7 More inches of ice and you can drive a fully loaded 18 wheeler out :laugh:

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coon_trapper on Jan 25, 2008, 09:03 PM
where are the fish biting might stop over there on Saturday
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coketeck on Jan 27, 2008, 09:52 PM
Doing good with the yellows at north pump house. Even an eye or two as bonus. Been in the deepest water I can find.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Jan 28, 2008, 10:53 AM
My son and his buddy was fishing by the west aerator Sat. night and they caught 4 keeper eyes and a few yellows. He said they was fishing on the east side of the aerator.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 31, 2008, 01:30 PM
Someone with a big truck and plow needs to do the East Gas Station ramp :laugh: Ice conditions are beautiful once you get out all that snow melted with the rain.  The D.N.R ramp is a little hairy though getting the shacks off there is gonna be a bear.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishnfool-3 on Jan 31, 2008, 03:08 PM
What stage are the fish in, know that it is mid winter?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bob32racing on Jan 31, 2008, 08:31 PM
i plowed out the west side of the island, where the ritz used to be.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coldfisherman on Feb 01, 2008, 07:48 AM
i plowed out the west side of the island, where the ritz used to be.


Hey thanks!

Maybe we'll get out to our shack now.  :tipup: Havn't been out since the blizzard.
Let's git some phishes!   Let's git some phishes   Let's git some phishes [glow]
           

CESAR
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Icey Tom on Feb 01, 2008, 10:46 AM
Thanks Bob!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  You'd think Clear Lake would accomadate ice fisherman and clear those accesses for us.  Hope to get out this weekend too.  I'm getting fishing withdrawl .......
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 01, 2008, 12:30 PM
The rain and warm temps melted mostly all the snow.  Once you get out you can go anywhere.  Gonna try south bay ramp today instead of the terrible dnr ramp
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: freezedried on Feb 01, 2008, 02:41 PM
any chance a guy could get a 3000 lb wheel house out on the lake? I went to Mille Lacs last weekend and the fishing was way slow Don't want to drive 6 hours for that again. It would be great if we could out a little closer to home.

FD
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coldfisherman on Feb 01, 2008, 05:27 PM
any chance a guy could get a 3000 lb wheel house out on the lake? I went to Mille Lacs last weekend and the fishing was way slow Don't want to drive 6 hours for that again. It would be great if we could out a little closer to home.

FD

I don't think that would be a problem if ya got a badass truck

CESAR
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coketeck on Feb 01, 2008, 09:23 PM
Anybody catches a fish trailing with a all blue pole. give me a shout. Keep telling the kids to watch their poles but soon as I step out to check a tipup,
 wammm. Now the kids wont stop given me the bad time. Ha Ha
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 02, 2008, 01:16 AM
South Bay ramp is in PRIMO shape.  Long drive across the lake to get to the shack but its worth it.  Better than sliding into the culvert all sauced up. :o

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bob32racing on Feb 02, 2008, 08:31 AM
Well i said the hell with fishing here for the weekend. I think i got about 15 to 18 guys to go up to winnie this weekend. You guys dont catch them all while im gone.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishnfool-3 on Feb 02, 2008, 05:10 PM
Kinda wanted to try Clear again last night but ended up running around on the Cedar. no Luck!
today we found a few nice walleyes on it, after we left the Lake Hindricks tournament,Real slow at the lake!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: iowaboy on Feb 02, 2008, 07:26 PM
A few of us are gonna give Clear a try Sunday AM. Were gonna access at Farmers and go from there. If you see a Lime Green Arctic Cat with a windshield and a Polaris and Bombardier stop and say hi.....
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ZEKE on Feb 02, 2008, 09:25 PM
Bring home a bucket full of those yellows and maybe a few walleye's. Are you taking the panfish kid?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ap2049 on Feb 02, 2008, 10:12 PM
Well i said the hell with fishing here for the weekend. I think i got about 15 to 18 guys to go up to winnie this weekend. You guys dont catch them all while im gone.

Just got back from the Island tonight and their were record amount of people on the ice, at least it seem like it.  Fishing slowed down Saturday and did not get much better later on at night.
Probably better to find some area where their is a not a lot of people with deep water.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 03, 2008, 09:41 AM
Yep the lake is getting the Holy Hell beat out of it this year.  Hopefully she can sustain it. :-\
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 1Eskimoshack on Feb 03, 2008, 04:09 PM
Hey guys, my first post, and my second trip to CL, I am from Cedar Rapids and have enjoyed both trips.  The latest was friday/saturday, fishing friday was phenominal, fishing saturday wasn't bad, but was slower.  A special thanks to Al P.  And a sincere thank you to all the locals, I am trying to convince the wife to move up to Clear lake, what a lovely town/area.  I limited on walleye both days, and caught some whopper crappies, a few perch, and some nice yellows.  Fish deep!!!  Good luck to all, and hopefully I can make it one more time.  Won't be able to make it for 2 weeks, let's hope the weather holds, and the ice too.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: original_iceman on Feb 04, 2008, 01:39 PM
Yep the lake is getting the Holy Hell beat out of it this year.  Hopefully she can sustain it. :-\

Yeah I agree with you CrappieBuster...  I was out on Saturday and I could hardly believe all of the shacks that I saw out from the island!!  It looked like a whole another city out there on the ice.  I haven't seen this kind of pressure on the lake for a while now, and it is consistent too pretty much every weekend now.  The cold spell kept a few people off of it while it was here (including me too).  Anyways, lets hope that the lake can handle it.   ??? ???
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Snow Dog on Feb 04, 2008, 07:22 PM
 :tipup:There was a ton of people around the island Sat. We did pretty good luck there Sat. caught 3 keeper walleyes 16 to 18 inches, bucket full of yellow bass and 2 crappies. Fished from 2:30 to 9:30 pm. Had a great time can't wait to get back there
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coketeck on Feb 04, 2008, 07:25 PM
yep the deep water does make the difference. But most of all not having all the extra noice around you does help. Watched a group of guys drill 50 holes right at dark because they arrived late. Every fish within 100 feet headed for cover.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: onemore on Feb 05, 2008, 04:37 PM
gonna give it a try sat. last trip out was unforgettable.  What a lake.  i seen a few people caught crappies are there any size to them.  When we were there we fished by the pump.  i would love to pull a perch out of the hole where is the best spot to try.  weeds. rocks. flats. drops.  let me know and if you want to hook up and kill some time on sat let me know early bird gets the worm....
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 1Eskimoshack on Feb 05, 2008, 07:01 PM
The crappies I caught were monsters, I caught very few perch but the few I caught were quite nice, fished by the island (so did everyone else) 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: HARDWATER IOWAN on Feb 05, 2008, 09:06 PM
Do any of you guys have any pictures to show everybody. Clear Lake is the best lake in Iowa.......
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 06, 2008, 11:58 AM
Hopefully theres still some walleyes left come spring in that pond!   :-\
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: original_iceman on Feb 07, 2008, 11:03 AM
Hopefully theres still some walleyes left come spring in that pond!   :-\

well at the rate of catching the cigar eyes at least those will still be in there... may not be much left of the larger size thou...   >:(
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishinlocal on Feb 07, 2008, 08:05 PM
Where is the best spot to drive onto the ice with my 1/2 ton truck?  Also, is there a map anywhere outlining where the aerators and trouble spots may be?  Thanks a ton...
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Feb 07, 2008, 08:34 PM
Where is the best spot to drive onto the ice with my 1/2 ton truck?  Also, is there a map anywhere outlining where the aerators and trouble spots may be?  Thanks a ton...

Follow the blacktop to the south side and turn on Bayside Ave. That will get you to the island. Don't get to close to the island, it has rocks around it and when the sun shines it warms the rocks up and you could go through. I seen a guy do it last year. Also there is a small spring about 100 yards on the west side of the island but if you just turn on Bayside you will come onto the lake on the east side of the island. The aerators are on the east and west side. They have flags around the perimeter of the open water to warn you. Once you get out on the lake you will see where everyone is fishing. Good luck! 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Feb 07, 2008, 08:39 PM
Where is the best spot to drive onto the ice with my 1/2 ton truck?  Also, is there a map anywhere outlining where the aerators and trouble spots may be?  Thanks a ton...

If you go to Mapquest and punch in Bayside Ave. and then Clear Lake you can get a better idea where it is.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 1Eskimoshack on Feb 07, 2008, 09:19 PM
I need to upload the photos of my catch, will post this week.  The best map you can get for navigation of Clear lake (city) is the free ones you can get from the Crazy Minnow.  As for water navigation, the Mapsource Hot Spot CD Rom and a Garmin GPS is the best, also I have a "Marked" fishing map of CL.  These two combined made navigation pretty easy.  Don't drive between the island and the shore either.

How much snow did you guys get up there?  Any chance of the DNR extending the premenant shelter season?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ap2049 on Feb 07, 2008, 09:23 PM
Where is the best spot to drive onto the ice with my 1/2 ton truck?  Also, is there a map anywhere outlining where the aerators and trouble spots may be?  Thanks a ton...

When you enter the lake off bayside be careful to stay to the left as you go on to the lake.  You will notice small red flags showing the culvert that empty into the lake that sometimes melts the ice a little.
Their is also a excellent access on to the lake before Bayside .  It is just past Clear Lake State Park and is an area that butts up to the blacktop. You will notice a marsh to your left and it will be open and flat to your right.  It is just before you head up a small hill on the blacktop.
You can get to the Island from their but it is a mile or so to the West.  The one aerator is over by Clear Lake downtown area and the other one is on the North Shore and to the West side of lake by the pump house.  

You also have to be careful around Dodges Point if the wind changes from the NW.  It creates a current from the NW aerator that hits the point and can sometimes cause the ice to change.  
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Feb 08, 2008, 05:51 PM
This article was in our local paper today:

http://globegazette.com/articles/2008/02/08/news/latest/doc47acc9957b7c6397862419.txt
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Feb 09, 2008, 09:37 PM
Just drive where everyone else has been driving.  3 days after christmas we were driving a 3/4 ton diesel out there with no problem.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: onemore on Feb 10, 2008, 06:54 PM
fished all day sat.  Not a lot to show for. Started out by every tom dic and harry.  Cought only a few yellows. Then moved  away from everyone.  A big thanks to a couple of men fishing out of the back of the pick-ups.  Walleyes Walleyes Walleyes.  Only 4 keepers but for a while there the action was so hot we couldnt fish to rods.  Nothing over 16''  But I dont even care 2 of us probly caught around 30-40.  It would be nice to see nothing but monsters but you cant have it all.  Love this lake
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 11, 2008, 08:31 PM
10 Mins worth of fishing tonight at Clear Lake.  Released 2 more limits of keeper walleyes and lost my chubby darter at the hole on a 25+.  Released a 21 that most people would have kept. A 15 1/2 silver too.


(http://i31.tinypic.com/2v3rm15.jpg)


KEEP ON FISHIN!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Feb 11, 2008, 09:05 PM
Dare I ask where you caught them at CB? My son and I was out until 8 tonight on Billys and  we didn't get anything. Friday night my son and his buddies was fishing and they each got their limit. My son caught a 25½" walleye.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 11, 2008, 09:11 PM
East end of the lake in the deepest water possible.  Seen one guy on billys musta been you.  I agree with ya friday night was way way hot........Wont say how scaulding it was tho :-\
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: great white on Feb 11, 2008, 09:32 PM
Is there much snow on the lake after the last couple storms? Thinking about heading there Wednesday. It will be me second trip to Clear and my dad's first. Hope you guys have left a few fish!


--Whitey
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Feb 11, 2008, 09:37 PM
I think you will need a 4x4 after tonight to get out. It was snowing when we left the lake.  The wind can whip up some good drifts out there.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: great white on Feb 12, 2008, 07:11 AM
We've got 4x4s--hope that is enough!


--Whitey
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: original_iceman on Feb 12, 2008, 10:33 AM
CrappieBuster...  well that was an expensive fish to lose then... there goes about $8!!  Sorry to hear that about the chubby darter, so would it be safe to assume that there is a bounty out on that fish now?   :laugh:  I guess you'll just have to catch him back to get your lure again.  That is a nice white bass there, good job and good to see some pic's too.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 12, 2008, 06:58 PM
I didnt make it out tonight.  Hows the snow situation out there?  Any roads plowed outta south bay yet?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: original_iceman on Feb 13, 2008, 08:22 AM
I didn't make it out last night either, but planning on heading out there for the evening bite tonight.  I can post a report of the conditions that I find.  I will try my darnest to catch that one that got your chubby for you...   but with my luck all that I will see will be more of them 13 1/2" eyes...   lot's of those.   ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 13, 2008, 10:52 AM
Yeh im gonna make her out too.  Hopefully dont get buried.  All I got is a 4x4 dakota with bald tires. :-\
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: original_iceman on Feb 13, 2008, 11:40 AM
Well if all else fails and after a few brewski's you could always spin a few donuts!!!  Bald tires are always great for that!!  Hopefully you don't get stuck out there!!  Good luck man and maybe I will see you out there!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: great white on Feb 14, 2008, 07:10 AM
We fished yesterday with no trouble getting around on the lake. There is some  minor drifting but not a problem. Fishing was slow, I got skunked! My dad got a couple small eyes and the guys we were with got one keeper eye, a few small ones and a handful of yellows--including one monster! It was a fun day but not much action.



--Whitey
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: original_iceman on Feb 14, 2008, 11:08 AM
Went out last night and man is that ice ever thick...  it is to where my auger is real close to not being long enough to get through the ice.  Haven't seen this kind of ice thickness for years!  Driving on the lake wasn't too bad, but I got a 4x4 too so that helps out alot.  Bite was slow, at least for me but I saw other guys pulling in some fish.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Feb 14, 2008, 11:22 AM
Where is everybody fishing now?  Havent been for about 3 weeks.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 14, 2008, 12:45 PM
Got my limit once again last night.  Along with 6 NICE yellows.  Missed a few nicer fish too.  Theres gonna be some drifts after today should make for a fun time :D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: original_iceman on Feb 14, 2008, 12:47 PM
Well there is still like a whole city sitting out over there by the island... but I don't like being amoungst a crowded mess like that myself.  Maybe that is why I didn't do good last night but who knows.  People are still spread out all over the lake but like I stated there is alot of people by the island.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Feb 14, 2008, 03:41 PM
Thanks for the info, may be up Saturday.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: KrappieSlayer on Feb 14, 2008, 04:58 PM
What's the specifications for keeping fish on Clear lake? Specifically, walleye...  We're taking the first trip to the lake on sat nite/ sun.  Is there a hotel close by? I here everyone talking about those yellows.. never seen one before or ate one.  are they good eating?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Feb 14, 2008, 05:41 PM
What's the specifications for keeping fish on Clear lake? Specifically, walleye...  We're taking the first trip to the lake on sat nite/ sun.  Is there a hotel close by? I here everyone talking about those yellows.. never seen one before or ate one.  are they good eating?

For walleyes the daily limit is 3 per person with a 14" minimum. No more than 1 walleye longer than 22" may be taken per day. On Yellow bass there is no limit. I think yellows taste just as good as a walleye . There are some motels on Highway 18 west of I-35.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: KrappieSlayer on Feb 14, 2008, 06:03 PM
thanks for the thorough info. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: original_iceman on Feb 15, 2008, 07:44 AM
KrappieSlayer - take a look at page 10 of this posting and look at the picture that CrappieBuster posted there...  there are several yellow bass in that picture.  That will show you what they look like and yes they are good eats too...  some people I know prefer them to the walleye... but as for myself I am still a walleye guy.  Yeah there are lot's of hotels just west of interstate 35 on highway 122 (old highway 18).  Plus if you want there are plenty of hotels in Mason City which is about 8 miles east of Clear Lake on the same highway 122.  Plus plenty of resturants in Mason City too.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: KrappieSlayer on Feb 15, 2008, 10:15 AM
How about any live music in the area? haha gotta have a well rounded trip ya know.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Feb 15, 2008, 12:17 PM
KrappieSlayer - take a look at page 10 of this posting and look at the picture that CrappieBuster posted there...  there are several yellow bass in that picture.  That will show you what they look like and yes they are good eats too...  some people I know prefer them to the walleye... but as for myself I am still a walleye guy.  Yeah there are lot's of hotels just west of interstate 35 on highway 122 (old highway 18).  Plus if you want there are plenty of hotels in Mason City which is about 8 miles east of Clear Lake on the same highway 122.  Plus plenty of resturants in Mason City too.
Actually Highway 122 ends at I-35 and Highway 18 begins.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 15, 2008, 12:53 PM
Heading out right now.....Hopefully it wont be to bad with the snow!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Feb 15, 2008, 02:15 PM
I called the DNR in Clear Lake and they told me we have until March 1 to get the ice houses off the lake.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 1Eskimoshack on Feb 15, 2008, 07:44 PM
My recommendation for hotel/motel is either the budget inn on 18, or silver boot on south shore drive, I have personally made 3 trips this year, stayed at super 8 (off 35) and the other 2.  I liked the budget inn best.  Plus Perkins is right next door with a multitude of fast food joints reasonably close.  Be sure and visit the Crazy Minnow bait shop on 18 too, it's a good place.  I am going to try and make it one more time in two weeks, as long as the gas auger is fixed, not going to hand drill that much ice again. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Feb 15, 2008, 09:02 PM
How about any live music in the area? haha gotta have a well rounded trip ya know.


Well if you like Craig Morgan he will be at the surf ball room tomorrow night I believe.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishnfool-3 on Feb 15, 2008, 09:34 PM
Well how did you do Crappie? Son skipped on me tonight so we will be there about 5 in the morning!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 16, 2008, 10:45 AM
Got 2 keeper eyes and about 5 nicer yellows.  Not explosive tonight.  But not bad either.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishnfool-3 on Feb 16, 2008, 02:56 PM

was out this morning fishing the deep stuff and it was slow! Marked a few lookers and caught a couple dinks.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Feb 17, 2008, 05:21 AM
CAPPIEBUSTER!!! WHERE IS MY MONEY FOR THE CUBBYDARTER!!!  BETTER GET THAT LOAN APROVED!!!  ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 17, 2008, 01:53 PM
Du kommunistisches Schwein I zahltest dich mit Propan!!!!
 


Eis-Seemannslied ist das größte!
 :o
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishnfool-3 on Feb 17, 2008, 07:34 PM
What he said!!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Feb 17, 2008, 09:19 PM
What he said!!!

He said: You communist pig I paid you with propane!!!!

Sprechen Sie Deutsches?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 17, 2008, 10:11 PM
That jag will make ya speak tounges sometimes i tell ya what :laugh:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Feb 18, 2008, 02:57 AM
THAT PROPAN IS GOING RIGHT TO YOUR HEAD CB! GOING TO TAKE THE GIRLS OUT TO THE SHANTY THIS WEEKEND AND SEE HOW THEY WORK THE CHUBBYDARTHER! ;D

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 19, 2008, 01:12 PM
Hopefully you can fit them thru the door. :o  Note to self enlarge shanty door for next year! :tipup:

Theres gonna be a road out from south bay after today I think we're gonna go over and open her up.  Other than that I dont think we'd be able to make it out to the shack after these super windy/snowy days.  I'd imagine theres some naughty drifts over there.  We'll see :laugh:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishnfool-3 on Feb 19, 2008, 01:48 PM
Let us know what you find? and drop a line while you are out!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Oldbear on Feb 19, 2008, 01:56 PM
CB is gonna have a road out there even if its a dog sled one.  Hes gonna fish one way or the other. ;)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ap2049 on Feb 19, 2008, 07:52 PM
Monday we could not get on the lake. But Tuesday someone plowed a trail from south bay to where the snow is not too deep
Bayside was partly open Tuesday with on trail you could follow.  We left early tonight because the wind started coming up and did want to get caught out their.
I would Guess it Will be pretty hard to get on in the morning.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 19, 2008, 11:35 PM
Busted a road out tonight from south bay and by the time we pulled off at about 10 30 she was drifted shut again.  Heading out bright and early about 6am to open her up again!  d**n drifts are rock solid!  Shouldnt be hard at all to get on in the morning if you come out after us :D

The eyes were slow though >:(
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 20, 2008, 02:09 PM
The road is open from south bay... Think imma gonna head out and fish the eclipse. :D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: walleyekelly on Feb 21, 2008, 01:18 AM
How was the fishin tnight with the eclipse?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Feb 21, 2008, 01:40 AM
THOUGHT I WAS GOING TO HAVE TO GO ON A RESCUE MISSION ON TUESDAY NIGHT! MY BUDDIES WERE OUT IN THE SHANTY WHEN THE WIND AND SNOW BLEW IN :o  I RECIEVIED A S.O.S SHORTY AFTER MIDNIGHT.... "HELP....WE OUT O BEER!!! HELP!!!! WE OUT O WHISKY!!! NEED BOOOOOOZZZZZ!!!"  GOOD THING I HAD PACKED A SURVIVAL KIT IN THE SHACK.... A FULL BOTTLE OF GLENFIDDICH WHISKY :laugh:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Feb 21, 2008, 01:48 AM
NEXT WEEK WE ARE GOING TO BE HITTING HER HARD! WE ARE GOING TO BE IN THE SHANTY MORNING AND NIGHT! GOING TO STAY OVER NIGHT.... HOPEFULLY GET NO SLEEP DUE TO THE ELECTRONIC RATTLE REELS ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Feb 21, 2008, 01:54 AM
Hopefully you can fit them thru the door. :o  Note to self enlarge shanty door for next year! :tipup:

Theres gonna be a road out from south bay after today I think we're gonna go over and open her up.  Other than that I dont think we'd be able to make it out to the shack after these super windy/snowy days.  I'd imagine theres some naughty drifts over there.  We'll see :laugh:

I ONLY DRAG IN THE "REAL" QUALITY GIRLS TO THE SHACK ;D EXCEPT FOR THAT NIGHT OF MY B-DAY ??? ON THE OTHER HAND.... MIGHT BE A GOOD IDEA TO ENLARGE THE DOOR :-X
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 21, 2008, 10:38 AM
Had my limit by 6 didnt even get to see the eclipse...... :laugh:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Feb 21, 2008, 10:52 AM
Had my limit by 6 didnt even get to see the eclipse...... :laugh:

What have you been using for bait? Could a front wheel drive van get out there where your at?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 21, 2008, 10:32 PM
Yep theres a good plowed road out from south bay ramp.  Just park off to one side of the road so others can get by.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Zimmerman on Feb 21, 2008, 10:41 PM
how much ice is out there
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 21, 2008, 10:44 PM
25-30 inches of ice. Might wanna bring an extension just in case.  Seen someone try and hand drill one today they got down on their knees and then finnaly went home :-\
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Feb 22, 2008, 12:34 AM
Yep theres a good plowed road out from south bay ramp.  Just park off to one side of the road so others can get by.

THERE IS ALSO A TOLL FEE FOR USING THE ROAD! PLEASE PAY THE TRAILER AT THE END OF THE ROAD... A  BEER OR DRINK WILL DO 8)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Feb 22, 2008, 01:52 AM
CB AND I HAD 16 TO 20 TONS OF WIEGHT ON THE ICE TONIGHT ;D SHE HELD IN THERE GOOD :laugh:  8 FULL SIZES, 3 ICE HOUSES, ANS 10 GUYS :tipup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: sbfPA_Mike on Feb 22, 2008, 05:15 AM
CB AND I HAD 16 TO 20 TONS OF WIEGHT ON THE ICE TONIGHT ;D SHE HELD IN THERE GOOD :laugh:  8 FULL SIZES, 3 ICE HOUSES, ANS 10 GUYS :tipup:

And a 16" roll of Jimmy Dean sausage; "I wanna eat gosh dangit!"

Mike
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: KrappieSlayer on Feb 22, 2008, 09:44 AM
We were out there monday during the "blizzard" and you're def. getting on the knees to drill the holes... wanting to make a quick trip tonight.... gotta see if i can get a truck... the wife is prego and is craving walleye.... i couldn't be a luckier man.  the only problem being that i don't have a truck... and if you don't have 4 wheel out there.... eeeek.  so if anyone sees a gold toyota going 50 mph just to get to the hole... thats my goal. just hoping the road assistance people provide for lake assistance.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Feb 22, 2008, 12:30 PM
Yep theres a good plowed road out from south bay ramp.  Just park off to one side of the road so others can get by.

Thanks CB, I'm heading out this afternoon. I hope they're biting.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Feb 22, 2008, 09:32 PM
I caught 2 keepers and some dink walleyes. No yellows tonight. Heading back out tomorrow evening before the storm comes in on monday. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 22, 2008, 11:37 PM
I heard someone put a shack thru over by the Island at the ramp......  Anyone verify this?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Oldbear on Feb 24, 2008, 03:53 AM
THERE IS ALSO A TOLL FEE FOR USING THE ROAD! PLEASE PAY THE TRAILER AT THE END OF THE ROAD... A  BEER OR DRINK WILL DO 8)


I kinda liked that one. ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishnfool-3 on Feb 24, 2008, 09:50 AM
Hey C.B. any fish on Fri or Sat?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 24, 2008, 10:48 AM
Friday we picked up some nicer keepers but it was slow.  Saturday night was all dinks with no keepers.  These sunny days dont seem to help the bite much.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Feb 24, 2008, 03:22 PM
3 of us got 1 nice yellow in 5 hours of fishing of the northeast side of the island. :-\
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coldfisherman on Feb 24, 2008, 04:29 PM
Sat. we picked up 2 whopper yellows some smaller ones and dinks. We were N.E. of the island out past all the shacks.
Don't try going on at the old Ritz. Too much snow. A 4WD Ford was buried there Sat.
We went on at bayside and it was good.

CESAR :icefish:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 24, 2008, 09:22 PM
3-6 More inches expected Monday into Tuesday.  Might have to "attempt" to pull the shack off.... :-\
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Feb 25, 2008, 11:08 AM
Last night was slow. I caught several cigar walleyes, no keepers.  The ice is 28"..it should be good fishin for awhile yet.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 28, 2008, 04:29 PM
Lake is getting pretty hairy.  Got the shack off tonight just barely. 8)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ap2049 on Feb 28, 2008, 09:17 PM
I wish I had pullled my off tonight. First thing in the morning I am going to to try to pull it off. I think it will be a high speed pull off to get through the drifts. Did you break a path tonight on the south side ?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 29, 2008, 10:23 AM
The south bay road is 100% drifted in DO NOT USE IT.  We were staying on top of most the drifts off road with my buddies f150.  A few naughty ones we dropped thru and almost got buried in.  Just keep on her and dont let up!  Look back every once and awhile to make sure the shacks still in one piece :laugh:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Feb 29, 2008, 11:09 AM
Does anyone know if there is a road plowed out on the east side of the island?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ap2049 on Feb 29, 2008, 12:15 PM
That is exactly what I did.  30mph going out and 30 mph pulling the shanty back watching it go up in the air a few times.
It is really windy on the Lake this morning and is still drifting.  I would get on the lake at the Bayside if anyone is looking for a spot to get on or if you go in from the south bay just do not stop till you get to where you are going.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 29, 2008, 06:15 PM
Glad to hear ya got her off in "one" piece :laugh:

Once all this snow melts and refreezes we'll be good to get back out there for all-nighters.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Feb 29, 2008, 07:03 PM
Glad to hear ya got her off in "one" piece :laugh:

Once all this snow melts and refreezes we'll be good to get back out there for all-nighters.

Sounds good! Bring on that Harvest Moon Beer!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coldfisherman on Feb 29, 2008, 08:36 PM
Bayside is excellent to get on the ice. Some guy in a white dodge plowed the approach out today.
THANKS DUDE~! :-*
We bashed some drifts on our way out to get the shanty so give it the beans if your goin out.
Most of the perms are off already.
30" of ice and we gotta pull'em. I don't get it.

CESAR 8)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Mar 03, 2008, 07:14 PM
I measured 30" of ice on clear lake a couple of days ago. It's supposed to stay below freezing until Sunday. We should be ice fishing for at least 3 weeks here yet if the weather stays on the cool side. The lake looked really barren out there today since the permanet shacks had to be off by March 1, not a soul out there this morning.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bull_Gill_Mike on Mar 05, 2008, 02:39 PM
Glad to hear everybody made it off in one piece!!  Anybody get any fishing done this week?  How's the bite? It's been a couple of weeks since I've been up there was thinking about giving it a try on Sunday.  We fished the over by gilmores last time picked up a few dink eyes, and had a really nice musky taking interest in my camera.  To bad I don't have a treble hook for that thing, I think if I would have jigged him a little it could have got interesting!!!  ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Mar 05, 2008, 05:40 PM
Gonna head out one of these mornings and see if theres any keepers left in that pond. ;)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Mar 07, 2008, 09:38 AM
I'm going out this evening, did you catch anything CrappieBuster?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Mar 07, 2008, 12:15 PM
Havent made her out yet.  Dunno if ill make her out tonight either.  Gonna be looking at an ice castle to purchase perhaps.  So we'll see. :-\
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Mar 07, 2008, 03:28 PM
Havent made her out yet.  Dunno if ill make her out tonight either.  Gonna be looking at an ice castle to purchase perhaps.  So we'll see. :-\

Where are you getting the ice castle?  Ive been looking at the ones out on the lake, and Im pretty sure I need one for next year.  Ever see any used ones for sale?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie rob on Mar 07, 2008, 04:17 PM
What's an ice-castle? Never heard of that here in Indiana! C-ya, Crappie Rob.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Mar 07, 2008, 05:34 PM
What's an ice-castle? Never heard of that here in Indiana! C-ya, Crappie Rob.

Google it, it will come up right away.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bull_Gill_Mike on Mar 08, 2008, 10:20 AM
Hey crappie buster or big blue did you guys make it out?  Catch anything besides a buzz??? :D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Mar 08, 2008, 03:50 PM
I didn't get anything yesterday afternoon. I left early before the night bite.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bull_Gill_Mike on Mar 08, 2008, 06:51 PM
What part of the lakeb did you fish?  We are headed up tomorrow afternoon,  The last few times I was up there I didn't pick up a fish till after 6, I've had the best luck on tip ups......
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Mar 08, 2008, 08:22 PM
What part of the lakeb did you fish?  We are headed up tomorrow afternoon,  The last few times I was up there I didn't pick up a fish till after 6, I've had the best luck on tip ups......

 I've been fishing northeast of the island where everyone else is. I was there tonight from 5-7 and caught 5 nice yellows and several  walleyes but they was all under 14".  The ice is in great shape. Good luck.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crappii on Mar 10, 2008, 06:51 PM
Any recent reports??   I am going to give it a try tomorrow afternoon.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bull_Gill_Mike on Mar 11, 2008, 07:33 AM
I was out by the aerator on the east side on sunday night.  Only picked up 1 dink eye from 4 till 10.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Mar 11, 2008, 09:34 AM
My son and I was out Sunday night. We caught 8 yellows and some small eyes. The best time to fish for yellows is just before sunset until dark then the eyes start hitting. Should be good ice for awhile, the nightime temps are going to be in the 20's  even though the daytime temps are getting into the 40's.   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: J. Rosonke on Mar 11, 2008, 01:16 PM
I was on Clear last night through this morning, same report as the others.

fished NE of the island (Red Dakota, Clam 5600)

yellows bit pretty hot at dusk and dawn both, a few fish through the night but slow, walleyes were all short.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crappii on Mar 11, 2008, 01:19 PM
Thanks guys!   Im getting ready to head north,  I will let you know how it goes.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Mar 11, 2008, 01:39 PM
I think we will be on the ice into April yet at least with 4wheelers.  Looks like we're getting another cold spell after these few warmer days here.  Should improve the bite and maybe produce some late season hogs :laugh:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crappii on Mar 11, 2008, 11:20 PM
Just got back from Clear lake.   The fishing was lousey for us!   We fished N.E of the island from 4:30 til dark and we only caught one little walleye,  drilled about 25 holes and tried to stay on the move???  No yellows.   At dark we moved to the north side of the lake to try for some eyes and only managed one more small one.  Fished til 9:15 and packed up for home.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Oldbear on Mar 12, 2008, 05:25 AM
Chad you'd probably of had better luck if you didn't take Dale along.  Hes kind of a jinx ya know. ;)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Mar 12, 2008, 10:02 AM
All I caught out there yesterday was a buzz! Hammed up on the hamms :laugh:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Mar 12, 2008, 10:39 AM
Just got back from Clear lake.   The fishing was lousey for us!   We fished N.E of the island from 4:30 til dark and we only caught one little walleye,  drilled about 25 holes and tried to stay on the move???  No yellows.   At dark we moved to the north side of the lake to try for some eyes and only managed one more small one.  Fished til 9:15 and packed up for home.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Mar 12, 2008, 10:44 AM
Just got back from Clear lake.   The fishing was lousey for us!   We fished N.E of the island from 4:30 til dark and we only caught one little walleye,  drilled about 25 holes and tried to stay on the move???  No yellows.   At dark we moved to the north side of the lake to try for some eyes and only managed one more small one.  Fished til 9:15 and packed up for home.

For some reason my last post with the quote didn't go through. I have found out it's best to find a spot and wait them out instead of moving around for the yellows. They move around in schools and with anytime you go you either hit or miss the bite as I have found out many times also on Clear Lake.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coketeck on Mar 15, 2008, 10:43 AM
If anyone is a trout fishermen the pond in Mason City got a fresh stocking this week. Small hook with waxy or a piece of cheese and you will have lunch in 30 minutes. Took kids down this am and let them have a blast catch and release. Always good to show a kid the outdoors. Have a safe week.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Mar 15, 2008, 10:33 PM
Where is the trout pond in Mason City?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Mar 16, 2008, 01:11 PM
No skill involved with catching them trout.  Stupid fishes :laugh:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Mar 16, 2008, 02:11 PM
Not real big on the taste of the trout either, but they can be fun...
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: great white on Mar 16, 2008, 04:55 PM
You guys think the ice will holdout for Saturday?


--Whitey
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Mar 16, 2008, 05:42 PM
You guys think the ice will holdout for Saturday?


--Whitey
Without any first hand knowledge, I would say yes at Clear Lake.  There was 30 inches last week, and it hasnt been real warm today or for the rest of this week.  Im going to try to make a trip this week, Ill let you know if I get there.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: c.r.rick on Mar 16, 2008, 05:59 PM
hey whitey rock creek has 18 inches or so so im guessing clear would still be good to go.  my pond here in newton still has 12 on it and im killin the crappies and gills.  my craps have been from 12 to 15 inches and the gills are running 7 to 10 inches.  got a 5 lbs bass yesterday.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ZEKE on Mar 16, 2008, 07:50 PM
Heard that the lake was a highway of trucks this weekend I think the ice up there should be good if the temp stay down.
Whitey you still up for Saturday

 Brother in law fell through the Ice at Ada Hayden(IN AMES) on Saturday night. Need a 10 foot board to get to the good ice.

Be careful on the lakes and ponds south of Hwy 30 edges are getting soft.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Mar 16, 2008, 08:24 PM
You guys going to meet up at Clear?  Maybe not true this year, but last March we fished Clear Lake pretty hard.  Seemed you may as well not even be there until about 45 minutes before dark. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: whiteysheating on Mar 16, 2008, 08:37 PM
We went to Clear Lake on Fri night but did not have truck enough to get out on the ice. Lots of snow up there around the lake and plowed in front of the public ramps on the south and west. The little one just to the east of the island was ok with a full size truck. We fished Big Blue Pit the trout pond Sat. instead. It must have been just right out because we got and saw tons of people limit out in 20 min.  We sat there with 14 till noon throwing the little ones back hoping #15 would be huge. Must have put back 75-85 from 10"-12". No %^&!.  Best trout fishing I have had ever. No prob limiting out by 7am. Don't walk far they were biting 8 feet from shore in 4ft of water. Never sight fished in 4ft before.  What a deal. Heard the ice on the lake to be 25-30" thick from a guy at blue at noon who left to get trout instead. Not too sporty but fun as a H$)).  Big Blue is in the south of Mason City. From I 80N take the 1st Mason City exit, It has a Kum & Go. Go east maybe 6 miles past a Casey's take a left on Pierce street go 1  block north of the first stop sign. It is on the right. Easyto find from either exit. Good luck. Let us know how you do.
John Whitey
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: great white on Mar 16, 2008, 08:59 PM
Ya Zeke--still planning on it!



--Whitey
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Oldbear on Mar 17, 2008, 05:36 AM
So whats the report Zeke & Whitey??
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: great white on Mar 17, 2008, 07:09 AM
Don't know Steve--not going until Saturday. But the fish were biting some at Otter!



--Whitey
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Oldbear on Mar 17, 2008, 08:43 AM
Oooops ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: c.r.rick on Mar 17, 2008, 11:15 AM
hey old bear did you make it down to hit krumm???  did good there this weekend.  edges are soft but ice out there is still 16".  and good luck to all you heading north. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crappii on Mar 17, 2008, 08:26 PM
For some reason my last post with the quote didn't go through. I have found out it's best to find a spot and wait them out instead of moving around for the yellows. They move around in schools and with anytime you go you either hit or miss the bite as I have found out many times also on Clear Lake.

Earlier this winter we did really well finding the yellows and having holes to move with them??   Seemed like you could catch 2 or 3 out of a hole and they would move.  Two of us would catch 25-30 keepers and all the small fish we released.   Tuesday we couldnt even find em.   I guess we were just in the wrong spot ???
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Wally Lindner on Mar 18, 2008, 05:14 PM
  Was out on the lake with the truck Sunday.  Fishing was good, 16 walleyes and one 10.5 yellow, the surprise was the bite did not start till 11:00 p.m. and even with the fish hungry we left at 1:00 a.m.  12 fow was the ticket I believe.  Gonna head back there on Wednesday, however this time we will be walking out.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bull_Gill_Mike on Mar 21, 2008, 11:08 AM
How's the ice up that way guys?  Was gonna try and make one last trip up.....  The fish cooperating?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishnfool-3 on Mar 21, 2008, 01:38 PM
I'm scared! going to the river!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Shadow on Mar 22, 2008, 06:08 PM
Ice was still pretty good but fish werent biting ,marked few (3 different spots and 30+ holes) was a total of 4 tents on clear lake today ,nice day and 1 small walleye
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ZEKE on Mar 22, 2008, 10:01 PM
Shadow,, Welcome to the site The fishing gets better I promise
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ejensen on Mar 23, 2008, 07:22 AM
Welcome Shadow, another great site here!!!

Ed
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Mar 23, 2008, 02:12 PM
Better late than never ;)


Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Wally Lindner on Mar 23, 2008, 11:28 PM
Stuck one leg through the ice tonight by the aerator thank GOD it wasn't both.  Calling it quits for the year even though the ice in places is still 26" thick.  Drilled a hole out by Billy's Reef and it was instantly full of water before the auger broke through the ice.  Be careful Boys!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappieangler on Mar 24, 2008, 03:42 PM
What does everyone think the ice will be like by this weekend?  I was there last Sat. and the ice was fine for the most part.  Couple open spots by the island and along the West shore.  I fished by the island and only caught some smaller eyes and an 11" yellow.  If you guys report we can still get on I'll try and make a trip up there Sat. night or Sun.  Anyone have any suggestions on where to fish?  Thanks for any help.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Mar 24, 2008, 05:43 PM
I drove by the lake this afternoon and I saw 3 guys out on farmers about 150 yards out. If it was me I wouldn't go out at all, it isn't worth the risk.  If you decide to go stay the h**l away from the aerators. The west aerator is open all the way to the south shore now. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Mar 24, 2008, 08:45 PM
The bite is way shallow.....Should be picking up in the next few days theyre moving to early season spots.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Mar 30, 2008, 07:29 PM
Is the ice out yet?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: uberfish on Sep 13, 2008, 12:11 AM
where are the dangerous spots to drive on the lake and where exactly are the aerators? (I dont know how to spell aerator)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: uberfish on Sep 13, 2008, 07:23 PM
I know youre supposed to stay away from the island, are there any other spots to be weary of?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Frank Boling on Nov 07, 2008, 10:04 AM
I'M going to be driving through the Clear Lake area on my way to MN this winter to ice fish,is there any places in the Clear Lake/mason City area that rent power augers?..thanks for any help.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Nov 07, 2008, 11:46 AM
Nope not that I know of.  The sporting goods shops/stores dont rent out any equipment.  For how much people ice fish CL you think someone would get on it.  No sleeper shacks either :-\
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Frank Boling on Nov 08, 2008, 08:28 AM
 :-\...Well dang,I guess I will just have to use a hand auger then,don't spend enough time ice fishing to invest money in a power auger,maybe a good excuse to move back up north ;D,we did live in Fargo for a few years.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: JimBobber on Nov 08, 2008, 12:41 PM
where are the dangerous spots to drive on the lake and where exactly are the aerators? (I dont know how to spell aerator)

The aerators are located over on the east end of the lake near the city park boat launch.  I'm not sure if there are others.

~Jim
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ZEKE on Nov 08, 2008, 06:31 PM
Frank if we happen to meet on the ice at Clear Lake you are welcome to use my gas auger.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Nov 08, 2008, 06:59 PM
Theres also an aerator midlake on north shore to watch out for.  A few springs/weak areas by dodges point.  Not to mention the sometimes notorius pressure ridge running North to south across that area, usually marked with thin ice signs(use care and good judgement while crossing with vehicle).  And the channel area where the little lake connects to the main lake that never freezes quite right due to current,get as close as you dare :o 

Other than that....
Watch for runoff on some of the ramps.  I broke through the East end/ gas station ramp 2 yrs ago in my truck.  It was intresting.   :laugh:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Frank Boling on Nov 09, 2008, 11:12 AM
Frank if we happen to meet on the ice at Clear Lake you are welcome to use my gas auger.

ZEKE,

Thanks for your kind words,I would think since I will be up to clear lake in the early ice season (late DEC) a hand auger would still work pretty good...when does clear lake freeze all the way over?...just a guess,but I was thinking in normal years it would freeze over by early or mid DEC...I was through there last winter in late Jan ,and some of the locals told me that the ice had really good thickness.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Nov 09, 2008, 11:58 AM
Last year I iced my first eye on Nov. 29th 3.5-4inches of ice.  24 Incher it was a dandy.  I would say most years 2nd week of December foot traffic, quads around christmas and trucks 1st of the new year.  Hopefully the forecast starts getting colder and we can get on early again for the hot bite!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Nov 18, 2008, 07:43 PM
It should be good on Little Lake on the west end of Clear Lake.  I heard they have been catching some nice walleyes where they have been dredging.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: uberfish on Nov 22, 2008, 11:32 PM
i see you switched your photo, did you catch that muskie recently?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Nov 23, 2008, 09:28 AM
Thats no muskie ;D
Just a big northern.  Caught her on halloween.

Im going to go check the little lake right now AND im bringing my gear.  Might try and sneak out there and catch a few if theres a couple inches.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Nov 23, 2008, 10:45 AM
Whole lake is iced over.  Little lake has around 3 inches.  I forgot my damm tape so I didnt get an accurate measurement.  Grabbing my shack now gonna hit her up this afternoon.  After I respool everything and get my tackle box in line.  Hopefully I can ice some eyes.  Ill get some ice pics though for sure :D

Anyone else get out this weekend?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappieangler on Nov 23, 2008, 05:49 PM
get anything buster?  What would you guess on thickness on main lake?  How did the ice do today after the warm up?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Nov 23, 2008, 08:06 PM
Ya lets here it bud.  We were at Corny Saturday and the ice was just decent enough to get out for a bit.  Nothing big, but lots of small eyes, perch, whites, and gills.

We will be at Clear Lake about 1.5hrs after you get on here and tell us its safe!
Let me know, we may come up tomorrow if you think its good enough to go.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Nov 23, 2008, 08:53 PM
Ice was running 2-3 inches on the little lake main lake was froze but not ready yet.  I fished west of the channel.  The fishing was sloooooowww managed some small yellows,perch,and eyes of course had to move around alot.  Nothing anywhere near keeping.  But it was good to get out.  Ice was hanging in there with the warmer temps.  The snow was slushing up a bit on top but thats it.  I think this is the earliest ive ever ice fished CL.  It felt awesome to be out! :laugh:

If you do go out bring your cellphone,ice picks,spud bar,25ft of rope and one of them floating boat cushions.  Never can be to safe this time of year! ;D


(http://i35.tinypic.com/346qj34.jpg)
My first victim of the 08 season. What a lil guy ehh?



(http://i37.tinypic.com/10prawz.jpg)
First eye through the ice for 08.  Whatta dink!



(http://i36.tinypic.com/1zc37uu.jpg)
Leaving is such sweet sorrow.. :(






Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: uberfish on Nov 23, 2008, 09:15 PM
my mistake, your photo makes it look lighter in color. nice fish.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Nov 23, 2008, 09:40 PM
CB! I was sleeping when u called! Lets get out there this weekend in the ice stays good! Good to see you made it out! Where is the shasta at???
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Nov 24, 2008, 04:57 AM
Thanks for the report.  Keep us posted, but as of now we may try Wed.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: uberfish on Nov 24, 2008, 07:48 PM
i have wed thru tuesday off, i will definately be out there.  has anyone gone out today?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Nov 24, 2008, 09:08 PM
I plan on hitting it in the afternoon tommorow.  Gonna track down the keepers and hit some spots that look good on the map chip.  I'll be at her all weekend too.  Not gonna quit till I get on em!

You wont find many out on early ice around here.  They dont wanna walk a 1/4 mile.  Or fall through ;)
Should see some die-hards out this weekend though.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: uberfish on Nov 24, 2008, 10:14 PM
at least we wont have to compete with the rest of the shanty town quite yet.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Nov 24, 2008, 10:21 PM
A buddy of mine went up today.  He was by himself, so didnt get adventurous at all.  He could see where you had been out in the little lake, and he drilled some holes off Farmers.  Found some decent ice out to about 50 yards, then it was getting too thin to go solo.  Do you think most of the lake will be fishable by weekend, or are you sticking to the little lake?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Nov 25, 2008, 08:33 AM
The main lake will probably not be ready. :-[  A few crap days coming up in the lower 40s with sun will not help.  As long as we make it below freezing everynight it will refreeze turning that little bit of slush on top back into Ice but not making much extra.  It was 13 here when I woke up this morning so were "okay" I think.  Only thing that would mess with us now would be a rainy windy day in the 50s.  Ive seen the entire lake blow open on days like that.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tsmith17 on Nov 25, 2008, 03:37 PM
How much do you guys think the dredging will affect fishing on the little lake?  I am looking forward to good fishing over there.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Nov 25, 2008, 06:55 PM
The water clarity the past few days has been terrible.  Usually this time of year its way clearer.  Also the lake level is way down.  I caught one 20 incher tonight but I wasnt marking many and I was in a prime spot ???.  Gonna maybe try and make it out on the main lake tommorow morning.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tsmith17 on Nov 25, 2008, 07:26 PM
Cool, I havent been out yet, but I am looking forward to see how you do on the man lake. :) Good luck man.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Nov 25, 2008, 08:28 PM
The water clarity the past few days has been terrible.  Usually this time of year its way clearer.  Also the lake level is way down.  I caught one 20 incher tonight but I wasnt marking many and I was in a prime spot ???.  Gonna maybe try and make it out on the main lake tommorow morning.

still fishing the little lake?  How much ice you got there?  Im going to try to make it up and poke some test holes tomorrow to see if we can get out.  Keep the reports coming, it helps us guys out that are 75 miles away.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Nov 26, 2008, 08:59 AM
Didnt make her out this morning.  I had the bottle flu :laugh:.
Little lake has 3 inches in most areas.  Havent checked the main lake in a few days.  It "might" be ready for this weekend.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: uberfish on Nov 26, 2008, 09:52 AM
ill be out there sometime today and will hopefully have some photos of fish up this evening.  is it safer to walk out from mcintosh or the grade?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Nov 26, 2008, 06:23 PM
We went from McIntosh Beach out on to the main lake this morning.  Made it out 3-400 yards fine.  It was around 2.5 inches near shore but closer to 3.5-4 when we got out farther.  Not much going, and I think we will wait til she puts a little more on. 
How deep are you fishing in the little lake?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Nov 26, 2008, 06:26 PM
Fishing 14.5 foot in the channel.  I only managed one barely 14inches tonight.  Didnt see many on the vex either.  Gonna hit farmers in the morning since the channel isnt happening.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: uberfish on Nov 26, 2008, 07:07 PM
got bogged down with the family agenda today, didnt make it out.  :( went to get bait at willow mart in mason but they wont have minnows till ice fishing picks up.  i guess ill be catching my own bait in the morning since crazy minnow doesnt open till 7.  planning on the lake again,  hope it works out.    but if anyone feels like shooting fish in a barrel, they stocked big blue today.  i sat in the car and watched for 10 minutes but no one caught anything.  surprising.  maybe the pros had been there and gone with thier limit already, but you wouldnt think it would take a pro to catch stocked adult fish. i dont know.  it is fun though.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ZEKE on Nov 26, 2008, 07:09 PM
Does the gas station on the south east side of the lake open at 6 or 7.
Is that the place you are talking about?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Nov 26, 2008, 07:22 PM
The gas station In CL does open at 6 I do believe thats the one just Nrth of state park at the Y intersection they have bait I stopped in there Sunday and minnowed up.  Willow Mart is in Mason City.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: uberfish on Nov 26, 2008, 07:24 PM
the crazy minnow is on the north side by the barrel drive in.  i dont know what time the place on south shore opens, though.  the one thats right on that sharp fork in the road, north of the camp ground, right?   but i do like buying minnows there.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: uberfish on Nov 26, 2008, 07:27 PM
just minnows and waxies there?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Nov 26, 2008, 07:28 PM
Most people dont carry waxies yet around here.  He did have minnows the other day though at the gas station.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: uberfish on Nov 26, 2008, 07:30 PM
i bought some from fleet farm today, pretty lively.  no dead ones          3 dozen for 1.40 i think.  looks like thier from the same company as the canadian nightcrawlers they usually have in the fridge.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ZEKE on Nov 26, 2008, 07:32 PM
We always get them at the gas station and they are good and get way more then you pay for.
I like these places that count out minnows I just laugh.
Have to keep the small business person in business.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: uberfish on Nov 26, 2008, 07:40 PM
definately.  haven't been to the crazy minnow in a long time because its not on my way to the lake.  but the south gas station gives you a better deal than anywhere in mason for minnows, that i know of.     i do like the canadian nightcrawlers at fleet farm for the summer on live bait rigs though,  the canadians are fatter.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Nov 27, 2008, 09:52 AM
Went for a little bit this morning on the main lake till the wind came up and blew me off there.  Ice was over 4 inches.  Im guessing by the end of this weekend there should be almost 6 inches?  Time for quads next week. :D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: uberfish on Nov 27, 2008, 11:16 AM
do any good?  i went for trout instead.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Catchaser on Nov 27, 2008, 02:41 PM
    Hello guys its good to think about getting out again. Have the yellows or eyes been doing anything on Clear in the last few days.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: uberfish on Nov 28, 2008, 09:07 AM
drilled a couple holes last night east of dogdes.  just a couple small ones. not worth making the trip quite yet.  maybe someone else did a little better.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Nov 28, 2008, 09:36 AM
Those commie weatherman have to go and change the forecast all the time.  It was supposed to not get above freezing all weekend
with lows in the teens.  And they go ahead and change it to around 45 or so! So instead of making ice were prolly losing ice! >:(
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Frank Boling on Nov 28, 2008, 11:35 AM
Our thinking has been that the northern part of Iowa would be on the cold side of the strong thermal boundary that is setting up for this winter,but as of right now I can see how a battle zone this winter sets up between warm/cold over northern Nebraska through northern Iowa.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Nov 28, 2008, 11:43 AM
Yeh the extended forecast is looking terrible for ice making.  Gonna be till after christmas for drive out.  Glad I got a 4 wheeler this year. :laugh:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: uberfish on Nov 28, 2008, 02:19 PM
didnt have to wear my gloves fishing earlier today.  not a good sign.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: brittlab on Nov 28, 2008, 04:47 PM
I hear a group did pretty well on the yellows today. looks like trip next weekend may be in order
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ZEKE on Nov 28, 2008, 07:53 PM
Saw some pictures from today's catch so I know there is some truth to the stories.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Nov 28, 2008, 08:56 PM
Maybe you are talking about my report, but even if not, here it goes.

We got about 35 yellows between 3 of us.  Most in the 8-9 inch range, with 8 or so in the 11 inch range.  We fished from 930-1230, so not exactly the best times.  Action was consistent, they would come in, get one or two, then be gone for 10 minutes or so.  One guy caught 18 of our fish, and we drilled within about 8 feet of him, and still couldnt mark as many fish.  So I guess the name of the game is to just keep moving.  Ice was around 4 inches off Farmers, and pretty decent ice.  Not sure how it held up late this afternoon, but it hasnt lost any from Wed. til Friday, so hopefully we can gain a couple more inches by early next week and be good for a little more exploring.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ZEKE on Nov 28, 2008, 09:50 PM
Yes Nick it was your pictures that I saw
Was there a crowd or just people standing on shore calling you nuts?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: uberfish on Nov 28, 2008, 10:48 PM
maybe just some people standing on shore yelling - HEY, qiut catching all of our fish!  :D        good to hear nick.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Nov 29, 2008, 12:19 AM
There wasnt anybody out that I saw.  A couple drove in and turned around, and maybe some came out later in the day.  The early ice kind of caught us off guard too, we needed another week or so to have everything ready.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: brittlab on Nov 29, 2008, 03:12 AM
thanks for the report Nick.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Frank Boling on Nov 29, 2008, 08:33 AM
Yeh the extended forecast is looking terrible for ice making.  Gonna be till after christmas for drive out.  Glad I got a 4 wheeler this year. :laugh:

I think the cold makes a good come back by later next week,and from most of the data we have looked at temps should be somewhat below normal for much of the first half of Dec,so don't give up hope for good enough ice to drive out on by christmas or maybe a little before.I'M still planning a trip through Clear Lake the end of the month or first part of Jan, so I hope our forecast for that area works out.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Nov 29, 2008, 01:00 PM
Went this morning fishing was slow.  Some small eyes and small yellows.  Ended up with 6 decent around 9-10 inch yellows.  Lots of cracks that looked kinda spooky over by farmers so exercise caution.  Ice was holding in there good though at 4-5 inches.  Punched a hole on the east end as I was leaving and found a good 5 inches also of decent ice.  So maybe I'll try the east end tonight and hopefully get some off the reefs. :tipup:

(http://i33.tinypic.com/286v28x.jpg)

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie rob on Nov 29, 2008, 03:47 PM
I'm going to stare into your icehole for the rest of the evening!!!! C-ya, Crappie Rob.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Wally Lindner on Nov 29, 2008, 07:22 PM
   Has the water clarity improved, in the week you guys have been out there?  Looks like Mountain Dew!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: J. Rosonke on Nov 30, 2008, 12:57 AM
Now I know who buys all the properly sized center sliders at Mills.  ;)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Nov 30, 2008, 09:29 AM
So whats the ice look like today after the snow?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Nov 30, 2008, 09:33 AM
Kinda creating a soupy wet mess on top.  Beings the first half was rain.  With the cold temps coming up that will all freeze back up into white ice.  Im gonna stay off for a few days cuz that rain kinda softens the ice.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tsmith17 on Nov 30, 2008, 10:05 AM
Time to make ice!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: uberfish on Nov 30, 2008, 01:42 PM
does anyone know if any of the area ponds have frozen over?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Nov 30, 2008, 03:50 PM
Bluebill is froze over. The lake at the junction of The Avenue of the Saints and I-35. Someone drilled some holes by the boat ramp when I drove by there on Friday. Ther should be some decent gills in there by now.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tsmith17 on Nov 30, 2008, 05:22 PM
I drilled most of those holes in Bluebill, I was going to go out yesterday morning but I didn't.  This past summer I caught some real nice largemouths, I have been trying to figure out the best way to target them out ther this winter.  I caught a lot of nice gills' as well. No crappies this summer/fall but I will try to get in em' this winter as well. Ice seemed thick enough around 3 1/2''-4'', will probably go out tomarrow morning. :)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: uberfish on Nov 30, 2008, 06:03 PM
the bass on my photo are out of there.  i was there once about every 3 days this summer.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tsmith17 on Nov 30, 2008, 07:19 PM
Nice. Those largemouths were beasts. A buddy of mine even pulled some nice cats out of there.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: uberfish on Nov 30, 2008, 07:35 PM
yeah, i got one cat real early in the morning, didnt now they were in there till this year.     we were out in my boat in the middle of summer and a friend of mine snagged a smaller walleye.  his line was sort of looped around its head, wasnt even hooked.  i wish the pearch were bigger,  wouldnt mind a bucket of those.  did you drill only by ramp then?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: uberfish on Nov 30, 2008, 07:50 PM
i just heard that the gas station in ventura is going to be having minnows.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Frank Boling on Dec 01, 2008, 10:46 AM
Glad I noticed the above post about the Bluegills,I love those things.I will have to hit that lake on the drive through on the way to MN,in about a month!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tsmith17 on Dec 01, 2008, 05:11 PM
I only drilled the holes by the ramp, I think I might walk around the pond a bit tomorrow and drill to check the ice levels and fish a bit.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 02, 2008, 08:38 PM
How thicks the ice on the main lake?  Anyone checked it lately?  Havent been over there to check it for 4 or 5 days.  Hoping to get the big shack out there this weekend "IF" we dont get that storm.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Dec 02, 2008, 08:47 PM
We were up Monday.  It was close to 5 off Farmers, most of it good ice.  Fishing sucked, but the ice was fine.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nater3 on Dec 02, 2008, 10:01 PM
Nick,
Are we talking sucked as in didn't catch anything or sucked as in didn't knock them dead like you usually do?   
Nate
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Dec 03, 2008, 05:49 AM
1 12 inch yellow was all we landed.  Fished from 2-5 and had 3 bites.  It was cold and windy, so we didnt move around as much as normal.  We just werent marking anything.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: roberts on Dec 03, 2008, 01:07 PM
i think the cold is on  hope to get fishing by this weekend .  i think i will go to farmers   and see how it goes
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishnfool-3 on Dec 03, 2008, 01:36 PM
Anyone been out on the east end or up on the north.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappieangler on Dec 03, 2008, 04:13 PM
Whats the ice like by the island?  That and the point (can't think of name right now) straight west from the island is what I'm familiar with.  Would anyone mind sharing where farmers and billys reef is from the island? 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Wally Lindner on Dec 03, 2008, 05:08 PM
  Billys Reef is East of the island. It can be hard to find without a map if you've never been there before.  Farmers is southwest of the island around Dodges Point and keep going Southwest.  Billys Reef reaches 200 to 300 yds out into the lake.  If you drill a hole out there and you're in five foot water your're on the reef.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 03, 2008, 05:53 PM
Use caution around the island I seen open water out there last week yet.  The gooses were keeping it open!  12 Degrees out right now at 6pm were making ice big time!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: uberfish on Dec 03, 2008, 06:35 PM
giving out all the secrets huh?  >:(        ;)  yeah, in the days before te vex,  the few times we just happened to spin some holes on top of structure by accident,  were surprisingly more productive than the rest of them.  it helps if you know the lake.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Wally Lindner on Dec 03, 2008, 07:58 PM
  More advice for crappieangler.  If you are serious about ice fishing hopefully you have'nt bought a Vexilar yet.  My buddy has one of these flasher units.  We have tested said unit against the Lowrance LMS 522C. No comparison!   The 522c has a liquid crystal screen, internal GPS,fish marking, color screen, maping, and operates in temperatures of -22 degrees.  Comes in a soft pack for easy portability.  It also comes with two transducers, one for the ice and one for the boat.  So you can use it on your boat in the summer were the Vexilar is strickly for winter use.  Nothing like droppin a chubby darter down there and seeing it attracting all the fish.  The cost is $550.00 and worth every penny.  Dual that with a Navionics Chip (North) and you'll be able to find Billys Reef faster than you can say walleye!  It will definetly give you the advantage on the ice.  Oh Yeah, it has a built in flasher unit.  Good Luck!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: uberfish on Dec 03, 2008, 08:50 PM
you can throw all the money you want at something at it doesnt compare to old fashioned know how and being framiliar with a specific body of water.  if you dont already have a gps.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: uberfish on Dec 03, 2008, 08:55 PM
i bet it is nice though. :)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Wally Lindner on Dec 03, 2008, 09:39 PM
  I agree, but if you're new to a lake the electronics will atleast give a guy some confidence.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bull_Gill_Mike on Dec 04, 2008, 07:14 AM
My brother purchased the Lowrance unit last year, I have the FL-18.  This year he is thinking of trading it in for the flasher.  I'll take the flasher unit with my handheld gps over it any day of the week on the ice.  But thats just me  8)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 04, 2008, 07:32 AM
I concour with bullgill on that one.  How long do lcds last?  The lowrance in my boat lasted around 5 yrs then just one day the screen came on all jacked up and they wanted 200 bucks to fix it!  Lcds do have their place in certain applications.  But ive seen 15+ yr old vexilars still going at it all dinged and knicked up and working in -20 degree temps.  Heck I dropped my FL18 off the tailgate onto concrete and that barely phased her.  Another thing is too flashers are INSTANT.  We could argue this all day long but to me lcd finders for ice fishing are just  very very expensive paperweights.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bus33 on Dec 04, 2008, 08:40 AM
I concour with bullgill on that one.  How long do lcds last?  The lowrance in my boat lasted around 5 yrs then just one day the screen came on all jacked up and they wanted 200 bucks to fix it!  Lcds do have their place in certain applications.  But ive seen 15+ yr old vexilars still going at it all dinged and knicked up and working in -20 degree temps.  Heck I dropped my FL18 off the tailgate onto concrete and that barely phased her.  Another thing is too flashers are INSTANT.  We could argue this all day long but to me lcd finders for ice fishing are just  very very expensive paperweights.

Good point....if it isn't broke don't fix it.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappieangler on Dec 04, 2008, 04:05 PM
Thanks for all the help guys.  I've fished Clear probably a dozen times in the past couple years, and have had good luck on soft water, and iced it twice last year w/ smaller eyes and a nice yellow.  I've never had much reason to not fish the island or drift north to the cattails from Dodge's Point, so I'm not real familiar with other areas.  With reports of good ice I'm thinking about making a trip up that way Sunday.  I'll be in a black Shapell 3000 driving shortbox 99' silverado (gray).  Thanks again for all your help.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: uberfish on Dec 04, 2008, 04:22 PM
good to hear.  heard there were quite a few over there last sunday, but i dont know if the bite has picked up yet or not.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 04, 2008, 06:29 PM
5 degrees at 6pm.  Didnt make it above 15 all day long.  Yes yes we are making ice :laugh:
Spent the last 5days remodeling the shack.  She should be ready for this weekend. :tipup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bates on Dec 04, 2008, 06:33 PM
With the talk of vex's a buddy told me today Polk City Bait and Tackle had fl-18 for 335. Might call 1st 515-984-6711 hope the info was correct.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bull_Gill_Mike on Dec 04, 2008, 07:54 PM
How about 4 wheelers this weekend C.B.?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bird3337 on Dec 04, 2008, 08:06 PM
I AM JEALOUS!  No ICE in SW Iowa!  PUKE
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: uberfish on Dec 04, 2008, 09:21 PM
i have a relative from southern iowa who is always irritated with that.  i try not to tease him.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: uberfish on Dec 04, 2008, 09:24 PM
How about 4 wheelers this weekend C.B.?

isnt the rule 4 or 5 inches of black ice per ton?   im not sure, something like that.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: marble-eye03 on Dec 04, 2008, 10:05 PM
Been fishing out there three times so far this year lots of yellows and only one keeper eye.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 05, 2008, 02:08 AM
I havent been over there for almost a week.  I found 4-5 inches of decent to marginal ice then even with warmer temps.  Now with the temps in the lower single digits at night and teens during the day it wont be long till drive out.  Id imagine quads will be fine.  Probably tow our house out Sunday or so with the quad depending on weather tracks.  Cross yur fingers :laugh:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: anderson_dc on Dec 05, 2008, 06:53 AM
It is to my understanding that the lake is completely frozen over expect for by the aerators?  Anyone venture out into the deeper water north of the island yet or is it too soon?  Thanks  :tipup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bus33 on Dec 05, 2008, 10:36 AM
With the talk of vex's a buddy told me today Polk City Bait and Tackle had fl-18 for 335. Might call 1st 515-984-6711 hope the info was correct.

Bill usually has pretty cheap fish traps and vex's.  He's not the most personable guy but he does sell for cheaper than most. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappieangler on Dec 05, 2008, 02:59 PM
I think he's been in a better mood lately.  He use to be kinda stand offish when I would go in, but he has been overly nice to me the past few times I went in.  Got some waxies in there Tues. or Wed. saw the vex but didn't check prices.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bus33 on Dec 05, 2008, 04:03 PM
Ya, he means well...just a different personality. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 515deerhunter on Dec 05, 2008, 04:12 PM
got my fl 20 there last jan, for about a bill less than any were els.old man bill dont mean no harm, hell of a good guy once you get to know him, just must dont give him a chance.  i ve been going here for years, and will for many more.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 05, 2008, 05:42 PM
Anderson_dc...... There was open water N.E of the island a week ago the geese were keeping it open..  May wanna keep an eye open for that.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SetDaHook on Dec 05, 2008, 06:24 PM
CrappieAngler, I live in Ankeny as well and have been over to Polk City to see Bill too.  You can't beat his prices and I do agree, he's been in a better mood.  I called earlier in the week for an ice report on Lost Lake and he actually had a candid response.  I was expecting him to hang up on me.  I'll always buy from the "little guy" whenever I can, it's great to have them around.  Good luck fishin, maybe I'll see ya out there.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: roberts on Dec 07, 2008, 04:03 AM
did any one do any good saturday on  the lake wandering about farmers  beach   and how the ice  was holding up
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 07, 2008, 02:36 PM
Taking the wheeler and the permanent house out tonight "hopefully". Heard through the grapevine there was 8 inches off farmers.  So if theres 8 she goes out!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: whip2 on Dec 07, 2008, 03:02 PM
No rumor about it, there is 8" of ice off Farmers Beach. Fished for a couple of hours this morning. Dang, the wind was raw.

Caught 5 Eyes around 10 inches long using live minnows & one small Yellow on a wax worm. Hopefully next time out I will catch something large enough to keep.

whip2
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 07, 2008, 06:15 PM
Gonna hold off since they upped the winter storm from 2-5 inches to 4-8 and 30 mile an hr winds.  We might be done for the season before we even get started.  8 Inches of snow would hamper ice building big time.  Hope it all blows over!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nater3 on Dec 07, 2008, 08:15 PM
My brother and I got out to Farmers at about 9:00 this morning and fished until about 5:30 tonight.  The morning was kind of slow with my brother picking up about 10 hole hopping and we picked up a few on our tipups.  Middle of the day from about noon to 3 it just died.  At 3 they started to turn on again and we hammered them for the last hour and a half.  They were hitting really well on minnows tonight.  My brother got all of his on waxies this morning.  We finished the day with about 40 yellows.  Only saw one walleye that got off at the hole, but didn't look too big anyway.  Great first day on the ice, but holy smokes was it cold out there.  The heater had a tough time keeping up and the entire interior of the shack had a frost layer on it.  We grilled brats for lunch and the sure taste awesome when it is -3 wind chill.  Also, there were two permanant shacks brought out by four wheeler while we were out there. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bob32racing on Dec 07, 2008, 08:50 PM
We did pretty good in the big permanant. Alot of yellows. You all looked at us like we were nuts pulling that shack out there!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nater3 on Dec 08, 2008, 09:01 AM
Not nuts,  ok nuts.  :)   We were in the Frabill just to the west of you.  What were you guys getting them on?   
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 08, 2008, 05:43 PM
Said ta heck with the lake since she wasnt producing the eyes I liked and found my own tonite.  Caught this one inside Mason City city limits.  Dunno where though ???.  22 Incher.

(http://i34.tinypic.com/wvydlf.jpg)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bob32racing on Dec 08, 2008, 08:04 PM
o i was catching them with a hook and bait.  ;) just a plain hook and minnow, but the didnt work tonight, we barely caught anything.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Wally Lindner on Dec 08, 2008, 10:05 PM
  Crappie buster if thats 22" you must be seven foot six inches  ???
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 08, 2008, 10:26 PM
Yeh she was skinny for 22.  Dont think theres much forage in the lake.  Not much of a belly on her.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: KrappieSlayer on Dec 09, 2008, 12:27 PM
Thinking about making a trip this weekend.. how has the night bite been?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: great white on Dec 09, 2008, 12:44 PM
How bad did this storm mess things up?



--Whitey
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: original_iceman on Dec 09, 2008, 02:44 PM
How bad did this storm mess things up?



--Whitey

Still digging out here today... >:(  Hope to get back on the lake here in a day or two...  ice was about 10" off of Farmers on Sunday.  I will post and let you guys know once I get back out there unless someone beats me to it.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: great white on Dec 09, 2008, 03:30 PM
Hope most of the snow blew clear of the lake! We got a sheet of ice instead of snow--yuck.



--Whitey
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 09, 2008, 03:48 PM
And I was so looking forward to driving out this weekend. >:(
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: uberfish on Dec 09, 2008, 11:59 PM
on the other hand............. that means less fishing pressure for the ones willing to brave the storm.         see you out there, hopefully.            my shacks a little heavy to pull on foot.      a bit of snow for the atvs but i bet a snowmobile could cut it.  went out sunday morning, about 5:30 AM alone, if i didnt have an ice anchor my portable would have ended up on the other side of the lake with me inside it. WINDY  no joke and not funny, would be pretty dangerous for some.  didnt have any battles with anything too heavy but did catch dinner.  been sort of busy with tracking/spotting deer this last week or so, anyone get anything for first shotgun season?          good luck         does anyone have a plow?    nice eye crappiebuster
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 10, 2008, 08:31 AM
It was -5 when I woke up at 6:30 this morning.  Even with the snow those temps will build it.  I got someone with a plow lined up but he waits for around 14 inches beings he's 10,000+ lbs.  Tonite or Thursday night were hooking on with the wheeler and dragging our shack out.  Or if its an even 10 off of farmers we'll hook on her with the truck and drag her out.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: uberfish on Dec 10, 2008, 09:25 AM
good to hear, sounds like a beast. ill throw in some $ for gas when he needs it.  let me know.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bob32racing on Dec 10, 2008, 09:28 AM
ive usually got one of my three plows out there. i drove the biggest diesel ive got out yesterday, and were going to wait for a little more ice for that, but ill plow a path or two
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: dgalli on Dec 10, 2008, 10:08 AM
Has anyone been out along North shore by the Baptist camp pump house or around down town?  Would think there's enough ice over there by now if you got 10" off Farmers. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 10, 2008, 10:41 AM
Heard from someone leaving farmers this morning that he was fishing on 8.  Never went out to punch a hole though.  It was pretty friggin cold (4 above). The ramp was drifted and heaved in bad though gonna have to wait for a plow to bust her before anyone thinks about driving out. Went out on the east end to check the ice a few hundred yards out off the marsh ramp and found 11 inches of good ice the whole way out.  Another inch or two and everyone will be driving out. Theres not as much snow on the east end.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: uberfish on Dec 10, 2008, 12:01 PM
i was watching in your backyard iowa the other day and rob was using a marcum or vex on top of the ice without drilling a hole.  he cleared the snow from a spot on the ice, put a little water down, and set the transducer on the wet spot.  any one done this?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bus33 on Dec 10, 2008, 12:14 PM
i was watching in your backyard iowa the other day and rob was using a marcum or vex on top of the ice without drilling a hole.  he cleared the snow from a spot on the ice, put a little water down, and set the transducer on the wet spot.  any one done this?

You bet...works like a charm.  I actually spit on the ice ;)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 515deerhunter on Dec 10, 2008, 12:16 PM
i was watching in your backyard iowa the other day and rob was using a marcum or vex on top of the ice without drilling a hole.  he cleared the snow from a spot on the ice, put a little water down, and set the transducer on the wet spot.  any one done this?
every time i go dont drill less i want to fish there find depth fish and cover first
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 10, 2008, 12:38 PM
As long as the ice isnt milky it works well.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IceHaus on Dec 10, 2008, 12:56 PM
As long as the ice isnt milky it works well.

Yeah, I look for old holes that have iced back up. They're normally good, clear ice. Having water on hand isn't always possible, but important. The bottom of the transducer has to be "submerged". I have to admit that I've spit a few times too.  There's one other way I can think of producing "water", and after several beers, there's plenty of it. ;)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Woody61 on Dec 10, 2008, 06:30 PM
Im planning on coming up tomorrow or Fri.Is the snow to deep to walk(don't have a sled or atv) Also where is farmers at? I know the Island, Dodge point and where the Baptist camp is but thats about it. Not willing to spend the day walking so would it be worth coming up?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: W_Morrison on Dec 10, 2008, 06:39 PM
Hey I have never fished clear before, thinking about coming up on the 20th.  Where are the good spots for the eyes, and how do I get there.  Also gonna be walking, is there good spots within walking distance.  Thanks for the info.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 10, 2008, 06:54 PM
Got her out today finally.  On the east end by the open water :-\.  Just so happens to be right by my spot!  Got on to the smaller eyes so im not far off!  This weekend theres gonna be some beers drowned and walleyes caught in that contraption.
(http://i36.tinypic.com/2v81ijr.jpg)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: badgercreekfreek on Dec 10, 2008, 09:24 PM
Sweet pic crappiebuster ... love those old campers as shacks!  I'm amazed the Rincon (I think) could pull that across the lake with the snow you all had up there.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Dec 10, 2008, 11:16 PM
SHE SURE IS PRETTY :-*

Thats 1968 in her best! Shasta Low Flite!

That is a Honda atv...
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Dec 11, 2008, 05:19 AM
Hey I have never fished clear before, thinking about coming up on the 20th.  Where are the good spots for the eyes, and how do I get there.  Also gonna be walking, is there good spots within walking distance.  Thanks for the info.
Your best bet is to stop at the Crazy Minnow in Clear lake, he has maps and he will show you exactly where to go to find the eyes. Just Google Crazy Minnow Clear Lake, Iowa
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Dec 11, 2008, 05:51 AM
Hey I have never fished clear before, thinking about coming up on the 20th.  Where are the good spots for the eyes, and how do I get there.  Also gonna be walking, is there good spots within walking distance.  Thanks for the info.
Google has the wrong address for the Crazy Minnow, it's: 504 Highway 18 West Clear lake, Iowa
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 11, 2008, 09:08 AM
Yeh thats an 08 rubicon.  Was gonna go with the rincon but that has independent rear suspension and cant tow squat.  Figured ice fishing your towing heavy loads and needed the solid rear axle.  Just stuck her in low and d2 and she stomped right through it all.  It was her first test and she passed it with flying colors.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Wally Lindner on Dec 11, 2008, 12:52 PM
 How far is it from the ice to the floor of your mobile hut?  Or does it lower to the lake?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 11, 2008, 01:07 PM
Around 8 inches in front.  And more in the back.  Shes a pretty deluxe rig for fishing.  You get spoiled pretty easy fishing out of that.  Furnace,tv,dvd,stove,oven coffee pot cold beer and warm feet it cant be beat! ;)  Heading over there right now to try and get on em. :tipup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 11, 2008, 09:01 PM
Well it was getting around that time... Figured i'd do it today. Heck of alot easier unloading. :tipup:
I'd wait a week at least for the diesels though :P

(http://i36.tinypic.com/2mwt2dh.jpg)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Wally Lindner on Dec 11, 2008, 09:36 PM
  Is the space between the hut and the hole open to the elements or do have a cut-off 5 gallon pale wedged in between the camper and ice.  Thinking of buying on of those campers.  Just unsure how to rig it for ice fishing.  How many holes?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 11, 2008, 09:39 PM
Yep 5 gallon buckets as inserts.  Ive seen people go the pvc route but that stuff is pretty pricey. 4 holes in front 4 holes in back.  Theyre a little close but it works.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Wally Lindner on Dec 11, 2008, 10:07 PM
  How big of generator?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 11, 2008, 10:19 PM
We barely use the generator.  Get by with low wattage items and use a 400 watt power inverter off deep cycles.  Switched the incadecent light bulbs to compact fluroecents went from 120 watts of usage down to 30 watts.  The tv is 65 watts.  So it works well.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishnfool-3 on Dec 12, 2008, 10:47 AM
Do any good last night?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: roberts on Dec 13, 2008, 08:26 AM
going to clear lake in a bit  around 11 am       any ideas    farmers or island ?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: takasaki on Dec 13, 2008, 11:42 AM
Fished north side off the pump house last night. 5 foot of water caught around a dozen yellows and 2 small walleyes. Seen lots of nonbiters. Had to change bait and jigs multiple times to pick up a few here and there.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: c.r.rick on Dec 13, 2008, 12:10 PM
hey crappiebuster was thinking of coming up there soon i know you fish the lake alot and are kinda the local guy on here.  without giving me your spots were would you recommend trying?  i know there are some reefs in the lake and ive fished the lake in the past but havent been for 2 years.  i usually fish the island area but ive never seen a walleye in the area usually just yellows and every now and then a gill or 2. any help would be great.  maybe i could pay you back with some barley water.  i dont think i can miss the camper.  great idea by the way. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 13, 2008, 01:18 PM
The reefs are hit or miss this time of year it seems.  I usually dont move on them until later in the season.  Right now the majority of the fishing is going on the west end of the lake at farmers beach theres 10-12 inches of ice so driving out isnt a problem.  Basically one big flat.  Set up anywhere in the 9-10 foot area basically and cross your fingers.  The yellows have been hitting fairly good around them parts.  With smaller walleyes mixed in.  Did manage one 14 incher last night.  Fairly slow though for the eyes. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Dec 13, 2008, 04:02 PM
I know a lot of you on here don't know where Farmers Beach is, you just go south of Ventura on Balsam Ave. turn left onto 235th St. When you see Cedar Ave. turn left, it's a dead end road and go to the end, that's Farmers, you will see the shacks.  Here's a link: 
http://www.mapquest.com/maps?city=Ventura&state=IA
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: roberts on Dec 13, 2008, 08:38 PM
just a heads up    at farmers  beach    right as you drive onto the lake    there is a hole thought the ice   looks like some fell thought   dont know i did not see it untill i came off the lake tonight   not a big one but someting to look out for    did ok  to day    i dont have all of that fancy stuff  like most but had fun   learned a lot today so that i talked with thank you  i will get the gatets  sometime soon     lol    and crappy buster    when is  the fish fry      ??????????????/      i better get invited   thanks all roberts
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: c.r.rick on Dec 13, 2008, 10:01 PM
hey buster thanks buddy.  i was wondering about the reefs.  ill keep that in mind.  so when the camper moves over one thats the indicator huh??   ;D  well hope your fishing is good im deer hunting this weekend since its warm down here in newton so ill be up there soon.  when i come if your at the camper ill knock and pay ya back with some barley water sound good??!!   ;)  ill let you know on here when im comin up and youll have to let me know what kind ya drink to repay ya for the info. 

good fishin   :tipup: :tipup: :tipup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 14, 2008, 09:10 AM
Crrick.. Good deal.  I drink anything.  Icefisherman cant be picky :laugh:

Roberts... the only thing that got fried last night was some brain cells...  The dammm fishing was terrible.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: roberts on Dec 14, 2008, 02:55 PM
well when i got home cleand fish and   did thay ever taste   good   was comming up this moring but with the weather  i fished some small  lakes around home    did ok  crappy and some blue gills nothing huge but had fun  untill i got out of the hut    and had to chase it dowan   so that was the end of my fishing to day   
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: roberts on Dec 14, 2008, 03:13 PM
crappybuster      i think the crew was thinking of other fish last night    sure hope it all worked out  lol
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 14, 2008, 07:37 PM
Hahah yeh when the fish arent biting we get our minds in the gutter.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tsmith17 on Dec 15, 2008, 07:17 PM
Did anybody dare to go out today? pretty chilly...
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 15, 2008, 07:27 PM
Yep I was out today.  It was a dead sea.  We were crazy enough to move our shack too. Boy that was cold.  Just hitting spots till we get on the keeper eyes.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tsmith17 on Dec 15, 2008, 07:33 PM
 :)You are a brave man crappiebuster, lol, saw those pics of your shack as well, looks like a pretty slick rig. Stay warm man.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 15, 2008, 07:48 PM
We were fishing in jeans and tshirt in the shack today.  But when you went out to relieve yourself it was quite cold.
 If the shantys a rockin dont come a knockin. :laugh:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tsmith17 on Dec 15, 2008, 08:00 PM
If the shantys a rockin dont come a knockin. :laugh:
Amen to that! :D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Woody61 on Dec 15, 2008, 09:48 PM
Not me,have to work all week but may try Sat, that seems to be the best option this weekend. The cold aint so bad but that wind was just downright wicked.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: wilson09 on Dec 15, 2008, 10:13 PM
how thick is the ice over at billys reef? I was thinking about pulling my permenant shack out there. Has anyone fished over at billys reef? How is the fishing?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Cristoforo on Dec 15, 2008, 11:26 PM
Hey all you Ice finatics of nothern IA!

Glad to see the season is being good to you all.
I am hoping to make a voyage up to the great Clear lake the weekend after christmas and was hoping that someone might be able to suggest some lodging that is close and hopefully cheap ???  If there is a super 8 or motel 6 nearby cuz we would like to make a weekend out of it.  Any suggustions would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Cris ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ejensen on Dec 16, 2008, 05:43 AM
Hey all you Ice finatics of nothern IA!

Glad to see the season is being good to you all.
I am hoping to make a voyage up to the great Clear lake the weekend after christmas and was hoping that someone might be able to suggest some lodging that is close and hopefully cheap ???  If there is a super 8 or motel 6 nearby cuz we would like to make a weekend out of it.  Any suggustions would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Cris ;D
There's a group of us going on Jan. 24-25 that are staying here.

Heartland Inn Clear Lake Iowa Hotel
1603 South Shore Drive • Clear Lake, Iowa 50428 • E-Mail
Phone: (641) 357-5123 • Fax: (641) 357-2228 • Toll-Free: (800) 334-3277 code 26

Ed
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Dec 16, 2008, 05:50 AM
Hey all you Ice finatics of nothern IA!

Glad to see the season is being good to you all.
I am hoping to make a voyage up to the great Clear lake the weekend after christmas and was hoping that someone might be able to suggest some lodging that is close and hopefully cheap ???  If there is a super 8 or motel 6 nearby cuz we would like to make a weekend out of it.  Any suggustions would be appreciated.

There is A Super 8 just off exit 193 on I-35 in Clear Lake.

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: uberfish on Dec 16, 2008, 08:58 AM
heartland inn is right on the lake too, :) with a boat ramp.   on the east end of the lake
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Cristoforo on Dec 16, 2008, 09:13 AM
Thanks guys you have helped a bunch. 

ttight lines
cris
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 16, 2008, 10:40 AM
The ice I have found on the east end ranges from 10-12 been driving out for 6 days now. I fished billys nov. 26th and there was 3 inches of ice.  Moved our shack onto gilmores to try that.  About 5 days ago there was open water to the North and east of there so use caution theres thin ice and you cant tell.  If I was to drive out id go off the gas station ramp if thats passible and maybe take it out with a 4wheeler first? 

Wheres the keeper eyes at? :laugh:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: wilson09 on Dec 16, 2008, 04:24 PM
One of my friends was telling me two of his friends caught their limit of walleyes on a spot we fished last year. They used a gps to get back to the spot only way to find. I have a good general idea where it is at but i would have to show you. thanks for the tip on the ice.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: uberfish on Dec 17, 2008, 05:45 PM
is that the boat ramp by the gas pump on the dock at cl boats? or the ramp north of the Y intersection gas station?     thought i saw you at fleet farm yesterday.   they were out of the #4 blue/chrome chubbys and blue/chrome rapalas in the largest size.  wonder if thats coincidence.    i know its a producing color for summer on crankbaits.  did manage to pick up the last #4 orange/gold though.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Frank Boling on Dec 18, 2008, 10:23 AM
Hey all you Ice finatics of nothern IA!

Glad to see the season is being good to you all.
I am hoping to make a voyage up to the great Clear lake the weekend after christmas and was hoping that someone might be able to suggest some lodging that is close and hopefully cheap ???  If there is a super 8 or motel 6 nearby cuz we would like to make a weekend out of it.  Any suggustions would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Cris ;D

Lake Country Inn there in Clear lake is a pretty good clean place to stay,I have stayed there a few times on visits...Good rates also
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 18, 2008, 11:20 AM
Y gas station I was talking about.  And that ramp is heaved in and out of commison for the year.  All the other ones north of that are plowed in thanks guys :-[.  Only ramp passible is the Marsh one in the S.E corner.  For that end of the lake.  After this storm nothing may be passible :-\
Theyre talking 8+ inches now.  Bring a shovel if you drive out :laugh:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: marble-eye03 on Dec 18, 2008, 07:33 PM
The yellows were on this morning, bait wouldnt sink fast enough! Afternoon was alright picked up a few eyes no keepers though. :( Evening bite was good whites, walleyes, and yellows. Dont think I will make it out tommorow, sure will try!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Chris868 on Dec 18, 2008, 09:23 PM
Any parts of the lake good for pike and walleyes both?  Never fished clear lake before so I am a newbie to the lake! Any info would be great! :tipup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 18, 2008, 10:27 PM
Pike are hit and miss on the lake.  Theres no specific way of targeting them.  Except throwing down a big bait and crossing yur fingers.  Youd be more likely to get a muskie or a 10lb eye.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: marble-eye03 on Dec 20, 2008, 05:07 PM
Yellows today again,  few walleyes no keepers yet :'( where are they? ???. Morning bite was great today. A bit chilly later in the day still managed to catch 40+ yellows!!  ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jagerdog on Dec 20, 2008, 06:38 PM
Just finished cooking (and eating  ;D) a batch of fish, fries, and hush puppies.  This is the first meal in a while that I got no complaints from the wife and kids.
     Lost a really nice walleye in the hole today.  It hit a #3 chubby darter in the regular Dace color.  Everyone raves about the bright colors, but I've done better on Dace and regular Perch than any others. Did get a keeper walleye on a perch colored crippled herring.  Yellows wanted verticle jigs rather than horizontal, which for me was a switch.  All in all, pretty good fishing today, but I have to work tomorrow.  I might go out after work if the weather allows.  Good luck guys!

Mike
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bullhead King on Dec 20, 2008, 07:43 PM
You have got to be kidding me that you guys caught anything.  My report is to follow.  Where were you fishing at?  I seen houses at the north aerator, farmers beach (where I fished), and I am guessing Gilmore's reef, if that is east of the island between Billy's reef.  I might have to hook up with you guys sometime as I have absolutely no luck out there.

My report:
I was supposed to go to a Fishing Minnesota get together today, but with the blizzard I decided to stay closer to home and went to the dead sea or I mean Clear lake. I knew going in the odds were against me. I drove out at the Farmers Beach access about 9am and went out to the tent city out there. I fished in about 10 feet of water with 14 inches of good ice, with the snow about 6 inches deep. As expected not much was happening as I only had two small bites, just enough to wiggle the spring bobber. Once the wind switched from the south to the west I left as it was time for the blizzard arounf 1:30pm.

I did see the neatest permanent fish house though. It was a round poly bulk tank a farmer would use to haul fertilizer. It was probably 1000 - 2000 gallons probably much more, but either way it would have been neat to check it out inside
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jagerdog on Dec 20, 2008, 08:16 PM
Bullhead,
     I was on Farmers and set up by 6:30.  I caught a lot more fish before 9:00 than after.  I was off the ice by 11:00.  As far as where to fish, i think the walleyes would be better on the reefs right now.  I wanted soome yellow for dinner and I think the am bite on Farmers is better, but the chance for a nice walleye isn't good.  Last year I bet I caught 15 short walleys for every kepperon Farmers.  Island Reef, Gilmores, and Dodges coughed up a lot more walleyes for mne, but fewer yellows.  Both walleyes I tangled with this morning were bigger than anything I pulled out of Farmers.  This was my 4th time out and my first keeper eyes.
     As far as walleyes, I marked some fish early but couldn't get them to bite.  It was full light before I found a pattern that worked.  I switched jigs 6 or 8 times before I lost a keeper in the hole.  I got him to hit by working a chubby darter fast and aggressively, slowing down, slowing down more, and finally just lifting and dropping a few inches.  He sat for several minutes before he finally grabbed the darter and it wasn't a strike, the rod just got heavy.  20 minutes later I iced one about 19 inches doing the same thing with a crippled herring.  It seemed like you really needed to move the jig fast and then just keep slowing down.  I missed 2 other strikes over the period and switched from the heavy single hook to a treble and caught a dink walleye.  It was over by 9:00.  I caught all yellows after that.  I switched to a lighter rig concentrating on yellows and put a tip up out.  Never got a flag, but had a yellow that didn't trip when I picked up.  If I were to fish tomorrow, I'd hit Farmers early and pick up at 9:00 and go to the aerator or maybe Rice Lake.  As it is, I have to work, and will try to figure out a night bite strategy.  Good luck and keep the faith.  Last year the week of Xmas was really good fishing.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: roberts on Dec 21, 2008, 03:43 AM
ok been trying to make the hushpuppys for years   but nevre had any luck    so  please tell me how you make them   right   
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jagerdog on Dec 21, 2008, 08:29 AM
     Hushpuppies are simple.  1 c corn meal, 1 c flour, 1 tsp salt, 3 tsp baking powder, 2 eggs and enough milk to make a stiff mix.  I add cayenne and old bay, but that's a preference.  You can also use baking mix instead of flour and baking powder.
     They come out with the consistency of a corn muffin.  Some people make them more doughy by using less corn meal and more flour.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bullhead King on Dec 21, 2008, 05:03 PM
Oh yeah please drive slow on the ice.  There was a truck that zipped on by the tent within 15 yards on the plowed road and the ice was cracking and popping real bad.  I was almost ready to get the heck out of the tent as fast as I could.

Also thanks to those who plow the roads out there it is much appreciated.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: blufloyd on Dec 22, 2008, 08:53 AM
Martha White hush puppie mix at your walmart.  Pretty good.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 22, 2008, 03:15 PM
Were gonna re open the road we made out from the S.e ramp tommorow more than likely.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: marble-eye03 on Dec 22, 2008, 06:48 PM
We jumped around from farmers to gillmores, usually get on the ice around 5am fishing is alot better in the am hours! Fished the north end a week ago, just a few yellows. Sticking to the south shore for now. What do you fish in Bullhead ? If we see you out sometime well let you know where we are goin!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Cristoforo on Dec 22, 2008, 11:18 PM
Looks like the weather is going to be fair this weekend.  Hope the temps stay below frezzing but not to far below.  Gonna be up on sat and fish sunday into the afternoon.  Would farmers be the best way to access the lake on foot.  Don't think I will drive my little chev on the lake with the amount of snow you guys got. :o  From what it sounds like it might be better fishing on some of the other reefs but acessibility is probably gonna be the main priority.

Tight lines :tipup: :tipup: :tipup:
Cris ;)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: iowaboy on Dec 23, 2008, 10:10 PM
Would a guy be able to get around fairly well on a 4 wheeler or is the snow to deep?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 24, 2008, 01:04 PM
The drifts are so hard I seen a 4 wheeler driving over top of them.  So that being said I dont think youd have much of a problem.  We have a road running out from the S.e ramp to gillmores.  Spent 2 hrs last nite opening her up.  Got stuck 5 times in a diesel250.  Some waist high rock solid drifts out there and its only December! :o
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Snow Dog on Dec 24, 2008, 02:09 PM
Whats the ice thickness on the lake? Thinking of coming up there Friday or Saturday and was woundering if it would be safe to drive my Ford F150 on the ice.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Dec 24, 2008, 04:51 PM
Whats the ice thickness on the lake? Thinking of coming up there Friday or Saturday and was woundering if it would be safe to drive my Ford F150 on the ice.

Im going to say if he was plowing snow on the lake with a 250 diesel, its fine to drive your F150 out. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: c.r.rick on Dec 24, 2008, 05:31 PM
hey crappiebuster im coming your way friday and lookin to stay till sunday know any cheap motels i can plug in the vex and get some shut eye in or around clear?  ill remeber the barley water i owe ya.  hey is your shack still down by farmers?  just wondering were you are so i can return the favor. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 24, 2008, 07:43 PM
Were on Gilmores now got sick of all the dink eyes and consistant yellows at farmers.  I like eating yellows dont get me wrong but they arent as gratyfying as pulling an 18+ inch eye outta the ice.  Yeh an F-150 is fine.  Weve been driving full sizes out for 2+ weeks now.  I had my truck out the first week of december.  Diesels and one tons were out 2+ weeks ago also.  Bring a shovel and extra beer its an adventure out there.

Cr rick...theres a no tell motel for reasonable rates over by the surf and O.p.  recently remodled id stay there.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: iowaboy on Dec 25, 2008, 06:32 AM
Don't forget about the Silver Boot on the east side next to Rumor's. ;)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: cyclone on Dec 25, 2008, 09:06 PM
Found and fished billy's reef last saturday, no action but we didn't stay late.  Gilmores is poppin some good eyes then?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: whip2 on Dec 27, 2008, 09:35 AM
Can a guy still drive out from Famers Beach with the melting or is it too slushy?

Thanks
whip2
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Dec 27, 2008, 10:14 AM
Can a guy still drive out from Famers Beach with the melting or is it too slushy?

Thanks
whip2

Yes they're driving out from Farmers. There's some standing water on top of the road out to where they have shacks but with the colder weather coming that should freeze up fast. There's alot more people out fishing today after the big melt yesterday. They have a nice road plowed out from the southeast corner out to Gilmore's.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: whip2 on Dec 27, 2008, 12:35 PM
Hey, thanks for the reply Blue. Saves a little driving for us out of towners.

whip2
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: great white on Dec 27, 2008, 07:09 PM
Well, we made the over 2 hour drive today. We drove on at Farmers--lots of water still on the road until you get to the shacks. We drilled a lot of holes. My buddy got two nice yellows and lost two more--that was it. Did get to see the 10 pound walleye in the tank at the Crazy Minnow--very nice fish. Really disapointing we did not find a few more fish--but there will be other days! Tried Cornelia on the way home for the first time and got zip.




--Whitey
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: spearchucker on Dec 27, 2008, 07:24 PM
Went out today just N.E. of the island. Dropped the AquaView down right away and saw a nice Muskie. That was the only fish we saw in 3 hours. The melt made a messs of the plowed road. 2 wheel drives beware!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 27, 2008, 11:50 PM
We moved our shack off of Gillmores today due to 12-14 inches of water around the shack. :-\  It was pretty hairy to say the least if we wouldnt have gotten her today shed be froze in something fierce.  Set up in deeper water off the island for now.  Wait for her to harden back up and then start moving around again in search of the hawgs.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Dec 28, 2008, 05:30 AM
I was out Saturday just NE of the island. Fished for 4 hours and ended up with nothing. It's easy walking out now after the snow melt. 16" of ice.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: KrappieSlayer on Dec 28, 2008, 05:56 AM
Hope the fishing picks up for you guys up there... I can't believe you guys have 16 inches of ice, we are still stuck around 6-8inches or so...
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Woody61 on Dec 28, 2008, 06:55 AM
I just hope the bite picks up. I have all of next week off and want to come up but don't really want to drive 180 mi round trip to get skunked, not looking to load a bucket but a few to bring home would be nice.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 1Eskimoshack on Dec 28, 2008, 09:18 PM
Are we driving on CL still after yesterday and today?  I would like to come up Friday and fish but want to be able to drive my 1/2 Chevy on the ice.  How much ice is there?  Edges around here were open today.  Anything biting?  It's about a 240 MI roundtrip for me.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 28, 2008, 09:32 PM
Nothings biting its pretty slow. 12-15 inches in most common areas.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bob32racing on Dec 28, 2008, 09:38 PM
ya it pretty much sucks, ive been all over the lake in the last few days and not catching to many fish. Im amost out of places to try.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bob32racing on Dec 28, 2008, 09:39 PM
just wondering if anyone has tried the little lake the middle or east end? I was ot there on the four wheeler today and didnt spot anyholes.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 28, 2008, 09:49 PM
Channel was fair early ice but that was back in late Nov marked some deeper than usual water there due to dredging.  Kinda have stayed away from there since we got the house out.  Heard of a 20+ft hole in the little lake too.  Could be heresy though.  I hear ya on running out of spots. :-\
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bob32racing on Dec 29, 2008, 12:27 PM
I moved one of my shacks to the state dock yesterday, im runnin out of ideas ive got shacks everywhere but non are producing anyfish.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 29, 2008, 01:50 PM
Were in almost 18 ft off the island havent marked many.  Goin over there to move her in shallower 13-14 foot closer to the rocks at least.  I know one thing she aint producing deep.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bob32racing on Dec 29, 2008, 02:09 PM
We moved one shack from theeast side yestrday to the east and its the same on both sides. nothing
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Cristoforo on Dec 29, 2008, 05:46 PM
Man I sure hope something changes cuz I wuz there the entire weekend all over from Farmers to the South & the east and only got four dink eyes.  Still a great experience for a southerner.  The way you all have your shanties out made me feel like i was really in a great spot for fishing.  Thanks for the tips and hospitality Buster.  Hope you and your pals have better luck in the weeks to come.  I am just hopin to have ice for the weeks to come :'(

Peace,

Cris
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 30, 2008, 10:18 AM
No prob man.  Its always good meeting fellow members...  To bad we didnt catch supper. :laugh:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappieangler on Dec 30, 2008, 02:51 PM
Atleast I wasn't the only one that didnt catch any last week.  I made the trip up from Des Moines kind of on my way home to NW Ia last Wednesday morning.  Fished from 6 am to about 9 am, and marked a few but didn't get one bite.  Changed to every color and presentation I could think of,  used minnows, minnow heads, and waxies.  Agressive jigging, soft jigging, and no jigging and nothing.    I guess I won't be making the trip back for a day this weekend if this keeps up.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: wallyhunter on Dec 30, 2008, 06:38 PM
Thanks for the updates!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bob32racing on Dec 30, 2008, 07:39 PM
I got a pretty detailed map ofthe little lake today from a dredger. It has all the contours of where they have dredged.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: whip2 on Dec 31, 2008, 04:14 AM
Bob32

I take it they have more dredging to do again next season?

whip2
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 31, 2008, 10:20 AM
Went last nite moved into 12 f.o.w off the island.  Marked a few early on in the nite 4-5 fish but couldnt get them to bite.  Left at about 730 highly discouraged.  Ive only caught 4-5 keepers through the ice this year and have been out almost everyday!  Shes been a tough nut to crack.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Dec 31, 2008, 12:41 PM
My son said he had a HUGE musky on yesterday. He put his tip up on clear ice and said he could see it under the ice when he got it up to the hole, but then lost it trying to get it through the hole.  >:(

I believe you met him Crappiebuster, his shack is over by yours. He said he stopped in and had a few beers with you.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 31, 2008, 02:22 PM
Yep and some Cusana Rojo.  We didnt eat the worm though. :laugh:

Glad he had a biggun on to bad he didnt get him. :(
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bob32racing on Dec 31, 2008, 05:10 PM
yes they have some more dredging to do. Mostly the south half of the lake is dredged alone with the northwest corner.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bull_Gill_Mike on Jan 01, 2009, 10:08 AM
Hey guys, are the yellows still biting? haven't been up for a couple of weeks.  I have some cousins in town from florida who've never been ice fishing and was wanting to get them on some fish. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bob32racing on Jan 02, 2009, 11:51 PM
no fishing sucks, its been slow for a bit.theres so many people in the spots that its lke driving through a maze to get to your shack, and the lake is pretty rough
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: whip2 on Jan 03, 2009, 07:08 AM
Thanks Bob32

I sure wish they could sneak their way towards the boat ramp at Macintosh so that isn't so shallow but probably not possible.

whip2
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Jan 03, 2009, 11:34 AM
Buddy was up to Clear Lake yesterday.  Not sure where he was fishing but they fished from 3pm till 7pm.  They kept 23 yellows.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bull_Gill_Mike on Jan 04, 2009, 01:37 AM
fished this morning from 8:00 till 2:00 we had 2 tents 4 guy.  Bite was slow till about 9:30 then one tent caught about 20 in and hour and a half while our tent had 1 (yellows)  We moved a couple times short distances without marking anything and finally drilled a few holes next to my bros tent from noon till 2 we had 17 more yellows on the ice in our tent while theres slowed 30 ft away.  Fished with the aqua-view only today next to my buddies fl-20 and saw several nice walleye on the camera with some cigars mixed in and managed a cigar and a healthy 16" eye.  Day was a little slow orverall but managed a  couple good meals, yellows were finicky camera definitely helped on the bite.......... it was nice to see some eyes though hopefully they will pick up soon! Thats all I know   tight lines boys!! 8)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 04, 2009, 01:03 PM
Weve been putting a hurt on the yellows.  And have been starting to get into the eyes also.  Thought there wasnt any left in the lake.  But they finnaly found our shack. ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: birdiglfr on Jan 04, 2009, 10:17 PM
I don't know what we've been doing wrong but we cant seem to get more that a dozen or so per trip.  We were there a week ago for one small yellow.  Almost not worth the 70 mile trip.  Saturday we had thee bite pick up for us.  They bit really well for almost a half hour.  We caught about 15 or so but they were'nt very good sized.  By about 8:30 AM the bite was over.  We stayed for about three more hours without even a nibble.  We must be in the wrong location, we were on the west end of all the shanties by Dodges point.  Has anyone been fishing the new deep holes in the little lake yet.  I think thats where i might try it next trip, it can't be any worse than the last couple attempts! :icefish:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bob32racing on Jan 05, 2009, 09:58 AM
Ive fished the little lake a few times this year.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 05, 2009, 10:03 AM
Yellows school up you find the school you find them and then find some structure they hold over youve got it.  Weve been doing pretty darn good the past 4-5 days on the west end over rocks in 8 f.o.w.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bob32racing on Jan 05, 2009, 10:47 AM
i havent tried the west end yet. have fished the middle and the east end in the deep water, ive got a map of where they have dredged and i think this week i will goout and hit some of the deep holes.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bob32racing on Jan 06, 2009, 12:04 PM
caught 30 more lastnight and had fun with the muskie that came into camera range
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Mr.Seaguar on Jan 06, 2009, 01:18 PM
bump
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 07, 2009, 12:47 PM
Ive got a 5 gallon bucket full of yellows to clean out in my garage yet........  Thank god for electric fillet knives.... :laugh:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Agronomist_at_IA on Jan 07, 2009, 07:04 PM
This as to be the longest running thread in the Iowa fourm. Wish there was a lake over this way with a following like you guy's have over there at Clear Lake,
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Woody61 on Jan 07, 2009, 07:38 PM
Hell, I just wish we had a lake over a 100 acres within 25 miles of Wloo.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Agronomist_at_IA on Jan 07, 2009, 09:06 PM
I know your feelings, closest nice size lake for me is at least an hour drive. Ponds get old fast, and It's just nice to know a guy's got a chance at the waldos.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ChaseA on Jan 09, 2009, 03:23 PM
     Are the yellows still biting? WHere?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 09, 2009, 05:27 PM
Yep yellows are still biting.  We were catching them at 11pm last nite even.  Didnt even know ya could catch em after dark.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: goosehntr_69 on Jan 09, 2009, 05:38 PM
Still in the west end CB?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: great white on Jan 09, 2009, 06:54 PM
Glad you are getting those yellows. My first trip up there was a bust. Sucks making the trip and having those dang fish go tight lipped!


--Whitey
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 1Eskimoshack on Jan 10, 2009, 10:31 PM
left the house today at 3am just got home another great trip to CL!!  caught 17 nice yellows, 1 keeper eye (17 in), 2 12in crappies and a perch.  fished farmers in the shanty town all day.  man I love Clear Lake!! ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ChaseA on Jan 11, 2009, 08:51 AM
   We always fish the north end, so we park by the pump house. Were is there to park if you want to fish Farmers, but don't want to drive on the ice?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: goosehntr_69 on Jan 11, 2009, 10:06 AM
There is a small parking lot right there at farmers, or you can park on the road.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Jan 11, 2009, 03:09 PM
are you guys fishing around the island or what reef?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Jan 11, 2009, 07:27 PM
Farmers at the west end is where most of the guys are fishing. The yellows were hitting again tonight.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Wally Lindner on Jan 11, 2009, 08:53 PM
4:30 to 5:30 non stop yellows and all nice fish.  Fished form 1:00 to 7:15 and other than that one hour only caught three yellows.  No walleyes, where are they?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 1Eskimoshack on Jan 17, 2009, 11:01 PM
What happened to this thread??  Did all the locals go tight lipped on us?  Anything biting?  Too cold??  Too much snow??  What's up fellers
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: great white on Jan 18, 2009, 08:02 AM
Is it still possilbe to drive with a quad or a truck or is the snow too deep?


--Whitey
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Jan 18, 2009, 09:35 AM
My son drove out yesterday on Farmers with his 4x4 truck. He said you have to gun it to get through.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Cristoforo on Jan 18, 2009, 11:40 AM
from my experience on this site people get real quiet when the fishing is good.   not sure if thats the case here maybe their web service is down.  or the road to the fishing hole neeeds plowed again.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 18, 2009, 12:27 PM
I havent been out due to the snow......Betcha its bad out there......Not like theres any eyes left in that lake to catch anyways.  They got hit hard and its gonna be a few years before we see good fishing for them again. :-[
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: iowaboy on Jan 18, 2009, 04:33 PM
Crappiebuster.......yo u been back in the Little lake at all and tried for eyes there? I have a feeling that is where they are hiding in the new dredged area. I think the next time I go I'm gonna check that area good. ;)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Wally Lindner on Jan 18, 2009, 10:56 PM
From 3pm to 8pm caught 19 yellows and three walleyes.  Split and a hook with a small minnow. Caught the majority of the fish at dusk.  Walleyes were small and next time I fish there it will be in the little lake.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Jan 21, 2009, 08:30 PM
I was out from 4:00 to 6:00 tonight and caught 5 yellows. Lots of people out this evening. The road out to Farmers is plowed and people were driving their cars out so access is easy now if you want to go out.  24" of ice.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bob32racing on Jan 24, 2009, 10:06 AM
still catchin some fish out there
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fireball122809 on Jan 25, 2009, 04:42 PM
i was on lake last nite farmers bench look like a small city . Did manage to get 1 walleye and about 10 yellows.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: uberfish on Jan 29, 2009, 09:42 AM
This as to be the longest running thread in the Iowa fourm. Wish there was a lake over this way with a following like you guy's have over there at Clear Lake,
no, you dont.  not if you want there to be any fish left in that lake.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: uberfish on Jan 29, 2009, 09:48 AM
not that i want to discourage anyone from coming.    :( :laugh:     maybe some one from the dnr will catch on and increase the amount of stocked wallys due to the increase in fishing pressure.   we used to throw back alot of the eyes that we now consider ourselves lucky to get. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishnfool-3 on Jan 29, 2009, 11:43 AM
It's sad but true!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: c.r.rick on Jan 30, 2009, 07:17 PM
as an out of towner thats comes up every now and again i make it a personal effort to keep only one eye every trip if im lucky enough to get one.  2 lbs max anything else goes back.  now when it comes to yellows i keep what i catch and when i fish perch on surrounding waters i only keep them over 10 inches.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Wally Lindner on Jan 31, 2009, 09:46 AM
Unless somebody caught alot of walleyes last summer (not likely), the lake is still full of them.  We caught and released hundreds of fish in the spring of 08 that are still there.  My explanation for the lack of bite would either be the dredge machine or to much bait.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Jan 31, 2009, 10:41 AM
I fished by the west aerator until after dark yesterday and could only manage 1 dink walleye and 1 yellow. The DNR estimated that 12,000 eyes were harvested last year.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: c.r.rick on Feb 01, 2009, 12:19 PM
ill have to agree with wally linder it doesnt have anything to do with the numbers in the lake cuz we all know its full of fish its just finding them and getting them to bite.  when i fished saginaw bay a couple years ago the locals called it the dead sea.  to our suprise we ended up catching more walleyes there then i have in a long time.  maybe it was luck or just right place right time but we seen fish on the camera and most would swim in look and leave but we did catch quite a few.  what i think is wrong with clear is to much food supply and way to much pressure on the eyes usual habitat areas.  last time i was there i caught 3 nice eyes which were all released and i was in the middle of know where by my self away from the crowd.  i talked to some guys who had fished farmers and by the island and hadnt graphed any fish all day.  this is my opion and yes i know we all got our own when it comes to clear.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: uberfish on Feb 01, 2009, 01:36 PM
im not saying there arent any eyes there,  but i am saying its nothing like it used to be.    and its pretty hard to believe anyone caught hundreds of nice walleyes last spring.  good, "photo at the bait shop" sized walleyes are what im talking about here.   no toothpicks, and none that require a tape measure.  i dont mean record fish or anything like that, just quality.  i know there are plenty of yellows,  sometimes it seems like an almost annoying amount but thats great.  i might be able to go along with the "too much pressure on usual habitat areas" but its still a numbers issue.  lets not forget that this little tourist town has, i wouldnt say doubled in size, but grown pretty close to it in the last twenty years.  i know they stock alot more fish but theres also alot more people, and we all know there was no permanant shanty town back then.  no one was selling shacks or any of that equipment yet.  so the handful of guys who were out were making their own.  also there was never fifty boats cramed into a 100 square foot area north of the island every afternoon in the summer.  i cant believe the cops havent been involved when someone slams a huge casting spoon into the side of another guys boat that thinks its ok to troll within 10 yards of everyone else.  i wouldnt go that far, but ive seen it happen.

does anyone know if theyre going to be done dredging after this year, or will it go into next summer?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coketeck on Feb 01, 2009, 04:53 PM
Fishing has been good on Farmers but as others have said get on where no one else is and you will have even better fishing. And thanks to the small pickup that drove over my tip up last night. Didnt care for the way it set up anyway.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: goosehntr_69 on Feb 01, 2009, 10:21 PM
Dredging will continue into next summer. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Feb 02, 2009, 01:49 AM
I agree with uber and coke. Clear lake had a real good year class that got hit hard... real hard! Yes, i do think that year class got fished out. It will be many years before we see that kind of fishing again. Fishing for the eyes this winter is a waist of time :(
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: iowaboy on Feb 02, 2009, 07:19 PM
I agree the walleye fishing has been slow this winter. I think the fish are their you just have to find them. I'd say that the folks fishing out of a permanent shack are way less likely to catch fish then someone that is out drilling lots of holes in different areas looking for active fish.

I know on open water I'm moving to find fish willing to bite and I believe the same holds true for hard water fishing.

I also agree that a couple years ago their were a ton of 17-20 inch walleyes taken from the lake. I'm sure this has affected to fishing were seeing at Clear now.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Feb 03, 2009, 01:51 AM
i have talked to everone i can in drop downs and portables.... same story. Yellows and Few small eyes!?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: original_iceman on Feb 03, 2009, 07:51 AM
I fished by the west aerator until after dark yesterday and could only manage 1 dink walleye and 1 yellow. The DNR estimated that 12,000 eyes were harvested last year.
I believe that is the DNR's estimate of eyes harvested but I also believe that they have WAY underestimated that quantity...  just my opinion...
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: walleyekelly on Feb 03, 2009, 07:03 PM
It would have helped clear lake if they had introduced a new slot size last year like the Iowa Great Lakes did a few years back. Sure you get stuck throwing some nice eaters back but the fishing remains good. Just a thought.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Feb 03, 2009, 11:50 PM
Agree Walleyekelly!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Feb 05, 2009, 08:41 PM
The yellows were hitting good on farmers tonite. I iced 14 in about an hour at sunset. Didn't even use the tent, it was really nice sitting out.  Oh yeah, I also caught one dink walleye.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Feb 05, 2009, 09:34 PM
Caught 75 yellows and 2-15' walleyes this afternoon. Glad the boys old enough to clean'em.

The walleye were very fat. Have caught 6 keepers in the last 3days. the warm spell this weekend should only improve the eye fishing.

Stay away from crowds. The water is very clear the fish are sensitive to noise.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Feb 05, 2009, 10:51 PM
U lucky dog u! u got the last 3 in the lake. thanks for the report. i am going to be hitting up the west side this weekend.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Feb 06, 2009, 08:56 AM
I had to finally post cause these are the only keeper walleyes I have caught this year.

I agree the balance of the walleye population has swung to the unfavorable side. Hope the DNR takes this down cycle and puts 17 to 22 slot into effect. I just hate seeing 19 & 20 inchers being cut! I personally keep only walleyes under 18", I know it's a persons right to keep those bigger fish. I have been in that arguement before, just my opinion ( even though I'm right)!!

Thanks for all the great info on this site.

Going out again tonight. Taking the kids out, should be a fun night.

Good Luck All
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Feb 06, 2009, 06:00 PM
Shantytown whats  your buddy crappiebuster been up to? I haven't seen any of his posts here lately.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Feb 06, 2009, 07:59 PM
went out again tonite with the kids....caught 40 tonite.....no walleyes though.....been fishin in 12 feet water in the west end....usin buck shot rattle spoons.....hope this helps everybody catch fish....good luck   ;)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Feb 06, 2009, 08:44 PM
Are you getting the yellows all afternoon, or just the last half hour of light?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: grizzwald660 on Feb 06, 2009, 10:14 PM
caught about 45 between 2 of us. 1 dink walleye 12". using some minnow to catch the yellows. alot on just the head.  good luck. grizz
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Feb 07, 2009, 10:02 AM
the other day we caught them all the way from noon to dark.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coketeck on Feb 08, 2009, 10:02 PM
Wow a great weekend on the ice. Plenty of yellows for the table. Thanks again luckydog it was good getting out on the ice with you. Drive safe this week.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: junior71991 on Feb 09, 2009, 02:40 PM
The fishing for yellows hasn't been too bad but all the walleyes I've caught this year have been under the length limit. Moved the shack last week.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 1Eskimoshack on Feb 09, 2009, 04:07 PM
I fished CL yesterday from 3 to 7 NOT A BITE!!  First time I've ever been to clear with out a bite, but we tried Hy Vee reef for eyes didn't catch a darn thing
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: TRCrappie on Feb 09, 2009, 09:00 PM
Are the yellow bass worth eating or just fun catching.  Have drained a couple of lakes down around creston and other places because they had to many yellow's in their.  Was wondering why they are such a popular fish around that area.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Feb 09, 2009, 09:07 PM
Are the yellow bass worth eating or just fun catching.  Have drained a couple of lakes down around creston and other places because they had to many yellow's in their.  Was wondering why they are such a popular fish around that area.

They are really fun to catch, and aside from walleyes, Id rather eat yellows than any other fish.  They make great table fare, and the yellows at Clear Lake are different from other lakes, in the fact that they get pretty big.  The yellows range from 8-12 inches on Clear, with a good share of them being in the 11 inch range, which makes a good fight and a great fillet.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Feb 10, 2009, 04:20 PM
I agree with Nick.  Great eating.  I was apprehensive when I first tried but pleasantly suprised.  They are right up there with Crappie in my book. Walleye, of coarse, #1.  No fishy smell or taste at all.  Also, they fillet out real nice.  An 8" fish will still get you a decent fillet, and all in one piece I might add. No problems with bones.  May want to take the red strip out though as with many fish (bass family), especially if going to freeze. I would classify them as more of a panfish than bass, though. They are also a thicker fillet than a gill. They are real fun to catch & better than a gill & they do run a nice size at Clear L with a great number of eating size. I don't think I caught one under 8" all year.

Hooked on yellers!!!!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coldfisherman on Feb 10, 2009, 06:10 PM
Pulled our shack off today. the ice has gone to he//. Reflections off of houses on N. shore has opened up some huge holes. We used the quad today to pull the shack off. Not enough sack to take the truck out.

Last night the water from on top of the ice was running in our holes so fast they looked like a toilet flushing. The holes were 5" across last night and 16" across today. Perm shacks have made a mass exedous.
Be careful out there everybody.

CESAR
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Feb 10, 2009, 06:26 PM
Pulled our shack off today. the ice has gone to he//. Reflections off of houses on N. shore has opened up some huge holes. We used the quad today to pull the shack off. Not enough sack to take the truck out.

Last night the water from on top of the ice was running in our holes so fast they looked like a toilet flushing. The holes were 5" across last night and 16" across today. Perm shacks have made a mass exedous.
Be careful out there everybody.

CESAR

Not good, Clear Lake was my last hope.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Feb 10, 2009, 07:01 PM
I drove down to farmers this morning and the water was running in to the lake like a river. Still a few shacks out there, I counted about 20 , some guys was pulling there shacks off as I was sitting there. The ice is turning to mush. There is no water on top. My advice is to not go on, if you do stay away from the aerators as the ice around them gets thin pretty fast in this warm windy weather.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coldfisherman on Feb 10, 2009, 07:55 PM
There is water on the top of the ice. We were walking in 1 to 3 inches of it.
CESAR
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Feb 11, 2009, 07:43 AM
There is water on the top of the ice. We were walking in 1 to 3 inches of it.
CESAR

So are you thinking the fishing is over at Clear Lake, or just the driving out?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coldfisherman on Feb 11, 2009, 08:00 AM
So are you thinking the fishing is over at Clear Lake, or just the driving out?

I don't think the fishing is over but I won't be driving out unless we get some cold soon.
Time to break out the portables I reckon. Be careful out there.

CESAR
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Feb 11, 2009, 09:24 AM
Boy Im glad to hear that.  I dont mind dragging the portable, or even just fishing on a bucket.  So, yellows still biting in the west end?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: junior71991 on Feb 11, 2009, 10:00 AM
I heard the DNR advised not driving out there two days ago. I went out yesterday and pulled the shack off so it didn't get frozen under 4" of ice. As I was driving off, someone in a big dodge was loading up and driving out. If the temps get down into the 20s like their supposed to, then I think driving will be ok for a little longer. For now the Yellows are still biting ok if your in the right spot.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Feb 11, 2009, 10:31 AM
There is water on the top of the ice. We were walking in 1 to 3 inches of it.
CESAR
Your right Cesar there is water on top of the ice. I must have had a brain fart when I put "no" in my sentence.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bobracing32 on Feb 11, 2009, 02:52 PM
my big dodge made it out. theres still alot of ice where the shack used to be its just opening up along shore. And there are some smaller holes open up in the middle of the lake. one of the tires on the shack dropped in but it pulled it right out.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coldfisherman on Feb 11, 2009, 04:11 PM
Your right Cesar there is water on top of the ice. I must have had a brain fart when I put "no" in my sentence.

Thank goodness for brain farts. One of my usual ones would cause "ice out" for sure.  ;D

CESAR
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Feb 11, 2009, 04:50 PM
Has anyone ever seen 30" plus of solid ice go to sh_t so fast?  I'm talking in a few days!!  My ole man & I were just out there last Thursday because we knew the big melt was coming & didn't want to sit in water. It was as solid as I had ever seen it. I cannot believe how fast this happen!  Use your head & don't do anything stupid.

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: dragscreamer on Feb 12, 2009, 05:39 PM
how thick is the ice out there now?still around 24''

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Feb 12, 2009, 07:49 PM
I don't think the fishing is over but I won't be driving out unless we get some cold soon.
Time to break out the portables I reckon. Be careful out there.

CESAR

the fishing was over as soon as it iced over... RIP walleyes!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Feb 13, 2009, 07:48 AM
Has anybody been out since the big thaw? What's the ice condition like?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Uncle Grump on Feb 13, 2009, 09:38 AM
Big Blue

Good question, I'd like to know that as well.

----

My questions are....

Can you get on from the shorelines/landings? (By foot is fine).

I was contemplating a trip there this weekend - expand my horizons - and maybe even catch a fish or two.

I know there is a bait shop in Clear Lake - can anyone provide the name/address/phone number?

Thanks much

UG
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Feb 13, 2009, 09:47 AM
Big Blue

Good question, I'd like to know that as well.

----

My questions are....

Can you get on from the shorelines/landings? (By foot is fine).

I was contemplating a trip there this weekend - expand my horizons - and maybe even catch a fish or two.

I know there is a bait shop in Clear Lake - can anyone provide the name/address/phone number?

Thanks much

UG

Here's a link to the Crazy Minnow Bait Shop in Clear Lake. 

http://crazyminnowcompany.com/
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: junior71991 on Feb 13, 2009, 08:11 PM
Big Blue

Good question, I'd like to know that as well.

----

My questions are....

Can you get on from the shorelines/landings? (By foot is fine).

I was contemplating a trip there this weekend - expand my horizons - and maybe even catch a fish or two.

I know there is a bait shop in Clear Lake - can anyone provide the name/address/phone number?

Thanks much

UG

The ice is running anywhere from 22-26 inches.
The drive up landing by Deadmans Curve is frozen mud and rutted up pretty good although it is drivable with 4 wheel drive. There is a little rock walk down landing at Deadmans thats pretty nice. Not sure on the condition of the Farmers Beach or Bayside Accesses.

If you are going to come up, don't plan on catching walleyes, plan on Yellows.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Uncle Grump on Feb 16, 2009, 10:37 AM
I made the trip to Clear on Sunday afternoon. Got on the ice via Farmers Beach (a stop at the Crazy Minnow got me the directions). Was setup by about 3.30-4.00.

Not sure if I was out "far enough" - there where alot of shelters / vehicles out much further than I was. Had about 7 FOW under the ice. Had yellows start showing up off and on between 4.30 and 6.00 - then it got to dark to see them on the camera. They were very skittish - move the lure at all and they scattered. Tryed a jigging rap & a buckshot rattle spoon (both tipped w/ a 1/2 minnow). Had a tip up out as well - one hit on it, but no one was there, minnow was gone.

Once it was dark - I swapped the tip up for a minnow and bobber - one hit on it - way under - but didn't notice it as I was busy trying to swap spoons - and when I did see it, what ever there was gone. Did catch 1 small walleye - about 10" long. Had some lookers come in, but nothing else would commit.

Alot of vehicles were comming off the ice between 6-6.30, so I assume no one else did much either. I packed up about 7.00.

UG

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: grizzwald660 on Feb 18, 2009, 05:15 AM
anybody got a fresh report? can you drive on? thinking of coming up there thurs. or fri. thanks
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coldfisherman on Feb 18, 2009, 08:24 PM
Still a couple feet of ice. We took two trucks out to our shack tonight from farmers beach. Easy goin. It;s pretty flat now. The ice was cracking loudly with the winds. Not that normal ice building crack but loud ice cracking type stuff. I think the wind is moving it around.

CESAR
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Frank Boling on Feb 19, 2009, 08:44 AM
I have been back from a trip to lake Vermilion in Tower Mn and some other spots for a few weeks now,even at that time most of the areas I fished were not all that active,did catch some perch and one throw back tulibee up at Tower....The one day I did try to fish on Clear lake it was way too windy and cold with no shelter so I was not out there long,hope I get to try again next winter.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: hndaugr on Feb 19, 2009, 09:41 PM
Went out wed. afternoon 4P.M. wind was bad. Many yellows,plus 5 13" eyes, to small as usual,1 2#cat. Ice was funny when we went on. Left about 6:30 P.M. Really cold then. Ice turned to glass.went on at the north pump house. Some foul dropped garbage through ice and it came floating under us as we fished. discusstting!!! :(
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishnfool-3 on Feb 21, 2009, 05:54 PM
few last night and a little better this morning in the wind. All small.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: grizzwald660 on Feb 25, 2009, 09:19 AM
headed up this afternoon. going off farmers. any reports? what are they biting on for colors? whole minnow or just the head? thanks for any help. grizz
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: KrappieSlayer on Feb 26, 2009, 05:47 AM
How'd you do at clear griz?  I heard that brushy didn't fair too well with the warm up?!? 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: grizzwald660 on Feb 26, 2009, 06:52 AM
6 yellows and 5 walleye only one legal. long drive but still had a good time.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishnfool-3 on Feb 26, 2009, 06:39 PM
lots of dink walleyes and a few yellows again!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: hndaugr on Feb 26, 2009, 07:59 PM
fishnfool: could ya tell if the ice was shrinkin?  At least your still havin fun  ;)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishnfool-3 on Mar 01, 2009, 02:06 PM
didnt do clear cause the quality of the fish! Went to a interstate lake and it had shrunk from 18" to 10". Fish were biting though!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bus33 on Mar 02, 2009, 09:10 AM
How's the ice?  I am thinking about one last trip this week.  Are people driving quads on it yet?

Thanks!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: junior71991 on Mar 03, 2009, 05:41 PM
I saw a few quads on it the other night. You should be fine.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bullhead King on Mar 04, 2009, 10:41 AM
I plan on going out tomorrow (Thursday) is there anything biting?  The plan is to go unless we get a bunch of rain or it is still raining, (don't know if it is still in the forcasst) we should be arriving around 5.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: grizzwald660 on Mar 09, 2009, 03:45 PM
how much ice is there? anybody been fishing? thanks
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Mar 09, 2009, 04:46 PM
I drove past the Little Lake this afternoon and I saw a couple of portable shacks on the south side. They are walking out from McIntosh State Park.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bullhead King on Mar 10, 2009, 10:27 AM
Thursday night we had about 20 inches of ice, 9 yellows and 2 walleye 12 inches and under.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: junior71991 on Mar 18, 2009, 10:41 PM
I thought about busting out the 12 foot V bottom and doing a little fishing on what used to be the aerator, but now its open to shore. Anyone have recommendations of what to use as far a lures and bait go?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Dec 04, 2009, 11:36 AM
I drove by the Little Lake this morning and the ice is starting to form around the sides. It's probably 50-100 yards out in some places. Farmers Beach has about 100 feet out that is iced.  It won't be long now.  :)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 04, 2009, 11:57 AM
And some pics to verifty ;)

(http://i47.tinypic.com/zx496g.jpg)

(http://i46.tinypic.com/w6w1m9.jpg)

Tonight with light winds and cold temps it should fully lock up.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Dec 04, 2009, 01:05 PM
Crappiebuster was that you in that 4 x 4 pickup this morning at Farmer's? I was just leaving in that beige Pontiac Montana.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 04, 2009, 01:10 PM
Nope wasnt me.. After leaving macintosh in discust I figured nothing else would be iced over.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Dec 04, 2009, 01:45 PM
And while we wait for the ice to freeze here is some great news for Clear Lake.
 
 The US Army Corps of Engineers will begin a restoration project at the Ventura Marsh during the summer of 2010. Completion of the dredging of Clear Lake doesn’t mean work to restore water quality at Clear Lake is finished.

Renovation of the Ventura Marsh is scheduled to begin in the summer of 2010, according to David Knoll, director of the Clear Lake Enhancement and Restoration (CLEAR) project.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is about 65 percent done with the design of the project. The corps hopes to bid the project by March 2010, Knoll said.

“The principal goal is to restore the marsh by achieving water level control so that periodic drawdowns in the marsh can take place,” Knoll said.

That will allow aquatic vegetation to take hold and control carp populations.

The project includes demolition of the existing outlet structure, construction of a new controlled spillway, construction of a marsh pump station and an outlet to Clear Lake on the northeastern shore of the marsh.

Knoll said a study showed the marsh contributed about 40 percent of the annual sediment flowing into Clear Lake. The marsh should be removing sediment and nutrients from the lake.

“The reason for that is the carp in the marsh stir up the bottom sediment and then the sediment flows into Clear Lake,” Knoll said.

In a functioning marsh system, sediment would drop out and nutrients would be used up by plants in the marsh.

In Ventura Marsh, there is very little aquatic vegetation on the eastern portion of the marsh because light cannot get to the bottom to allow plants to grow. Carp stirs  up the sediment, according to Knoll.

He said the DNR plan for the first year after the pumping station is in operation is to draw down the marsh to kill off fish and support vegetation.

Right now, the marsh can only be lowered to whatever level the lake is.

The estimated construction cost is $2.5 million, Knoll said.

It is anticipated that the DNR share of the project  will be $500,000 with the corps paying the rest.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 04, 2009, 01:54 PM
Who knows maybe clear lake will be clear again 10 or so years from now.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Wally Lindner on Dec 04, 2009, 02:55 PM
Best news I've heard about that lake in a while.  How was the walleye bite this past summer?  For me, the spring of 09 was horrible compared to the spring of 08.  We caught alot of wallys in 08!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 04, 2009, 03:17 PM
Walleye fishing was terrible this spring and summer I think theyre all caught outta there.  Gonna have to settle for them d amn yellows. >:(
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: original_iceman on Dec 04, 2009, 03:28 PM
Walleye fishing was terrible this spring and summer I think theyre all caught outta there.  Gonna have to settle for them d amn yellows. >:(

X 2
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Wally Lindner on Dec 04, 2009, 04:06 PM
I'd rather bail hay in 100 degree weather with shorts on than sit in a ice house and fish for yellows!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 04, 2009, 04:16 PM
Thinkin of catching a couple thousand and shipping em off china im sure id get something out of it then. lol
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Dec 04, 2009, 04:50 PM
 Good fishing at the lake is right around the corner. Read on,

Clear Lake fish populations enjoy increased production

CLEAR LAKE — The forage is back. Fingerling nurseries are full. Clear Lake fish populations are returning to a healthy balance. That’s the assessment of DNR District Fisheries Biologist Scott Grummer as fisheries crews put a wrap on this year’s annual Young of the Year Fish Surveys.

The fish production survey has been conducted at Clear Lake every year since 1972 and is designed to document annual spawning success and young fish survival, said Grummer. Nighttime net crews visit seven standard locations during August and return again in September to collect and inventory fish from a dozen species.

Results are used to monitor reproductive success of all species, evaluate the annual success of walleye stockings, and aid in predicting future growth and abundance of sportfish.

“Water temperatures fluctuated wildly during the 2008 spawning season and fish production was poor,” said Grummer. “This spring we had more consistent water temps, increased clarity, and excellent growth of aquatic plant life. The result was a phenomenal spawn which resulted in more than a hundred fold increase in fish production over last year.

“Clear Lake’s yellow bass population provides a very important forage base for larger predators, like walleyes, and yellow bass are also very popular with anglers,” noted Grummer. “Yellow bass enjoyed an extremely successful production effort this spring and those young fish will play an important role in supplying recruitment as aging adults begin to leave the population.”

Other survey highlights include banner spawning success for yellow perch, bluegill, spot-tail shiner, and crappie. Production levels for each of those species reached or exceeded the long term (1972-2009) average.

Walleye survival increased by 300 percent during 2009 and now hovers slightly below the long term average. No (zero) young of the year black bullheads were observed at any of the survey stations.

“The 2009 survey results are extremely encouraging,” said Grummer. “In addition to being observed in large numbers, fingerlings from all fish species are also in excellent body condition  — very robust. Walleyes are currently measuring up to 6½ inches in length, which is as good a growth rate as anyone can expect. Perch are measuring 3 inches, and yellow bass are at 2½ inches.”

“We also saw a real surge in underwater, aquatic plant life this summer which is very important for providing food (aquatic insects) and cover for fry and fingerlings,” said Grummer.

“Survey sites harboring substantial plant beds are the locations where we surveyed the greatest numbers of young of the year yellow perch, bluegills, and largemouth bass. At areas containing no plant life, we encountered no perch, bluegill, or largemouth bass fingerlings.”

“There’s no question that it was a very successful production year at Clear Lake,” said Grummer. “Future year classes of sportfish will receive a huge benefit from this year’s hatch.”

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 04, 2009, 05:12 PM
You can sugar cote anything.  I like the large numbers of 6 1/2 inch walleyes.  Theyre at least right on the button with that.  D amn cigars ;)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: HANDLINE2 on Dec 05, 2009, 07:49 AM
Cerro Gordo County's Clear Lake was the destination for more than 18,000 of the Rathbun jumbos. According to north Iowa District Fisheries Biologist, Scott Grummer, the Rathbun walleyes represent the season's final installment of young game fish to Clear Lake and will supplement earlier 2009 walleye stockings which included 16 million fry, 55,000 three-inch fingerlings, and 18,000 six-inch advanced fingerlings.

The jumbos averaged 9" and were stocked in October.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Wally Lindner on Dec 05, 2009, 10:15 AM
Good report Big Blue.  Perch?  No bullheads can't be a good thing, Lost Island is full of them.  Fat Walleyes instead of the "Cigars Cigarettes" 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 05, 2009, 10:32 AM
Little lake is about 70% iced over.  Some open holes out there.  May wanna exercise extreme caution next week.  The main lake is about 40% iced up.  Be careful fellas.

Heres a view of the main lake off farmers beach.  It's just skim right now.
(http://i50.tinypic.com/2ly654z.jpg)


Heres a shot of the little lake off Mcintosh woods ramp. 1.5 inches about 100 ft out. Less further out beings it just froze over last night. Maybe have quads out by next Sunday? We'll see :tipup:
(http://i45.tinypic.com/f24j2t.jpg)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: walleyekelly on Dec 05, 2009, 01:50 PM
That's a beautiful sight
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Dec 05, 2009, 03:44 PM
Good report Big Blue.  Perch?  No bullheads can't be a good thing, Lost Island is full of them.  Fat Walleyes instead of the "Cigars Cigarettes" 

Yes the perch and bluegills are coming back since the water quality is improving.  I caught some nice bluegills off the ventura grade jetty this spring. Of course I'm sure you heard they dredged the little lake the last 2 years and they installed filter boxes on some of the accesses to the lake. Between that and the new project coming up on the ventura marsh we should have some quality water here in a few years. And don't forget all them zebra mussels we have in the lake also, they help improve the water clarity also. >:(  So when you pick up your portable to take it to another location make sure you hose it off so you don't transfer them mussels.  ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 07, 2009, 03:11 PM
We need to wish this storm away! :tipup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: roberts on Dec 07, 2009, 07:05 PM
crappy buster     you are right   hope we get to have a beer this year also     i dont know about the girls you all bring in   but fun time      any ways      keep your hook wet    lol
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Dec 08, 2009, 09:34 AM
All this snow and wind that's coming is really going to put the kibosh on fishing for awhile.  >:(
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 08, 2009, 09:48 AM
I would say prolly a 75% chance of no one driving out this year.  And no wheelhouses out. >:(
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Dec 09, 2009, 02:46 AM
crappy buster     you are right   hope we get to have a beer this year also     i dont know about the girls you all bring in   but fun time      any ways      keep your hook wet    lol


Wait a sec! CB can't get know girls in the love shack! Now me on the other hand has them stacked in there from last year! LOL!

Best be bringing your own beer over :nono: and leave our bottle :%$#!:

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 09, 2009, 08:57 AM
Stick a fork in her shes done! forget about the poon 2!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: esox_magnum on Dec 09, 2009, 09:20 AM
I'm sure glad 1 of my lakes is still open, she can cap after today.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Dec 10, 2009, 03:34 AM
Any ice reports on clear lake? Thinking this weekend will be a go!?


 :icefish:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Dec 10, 2009, 09:14 AM
Holy cat fits it's cold out there! Has anybody drove past the lake yet, what does it look like out there?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 10, 2009, 03:39 PM
Headin over there in a few to see if it blew off or slushed up and froze into white ice.
Arctic armor check......
Ice spikes check.........
Wild turkey check........

Yup im ready!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Dec 10, 2009, 05:18 PM
I drove past this afternoon. It looks like the middle turned to white ice. I see they moved the west aerator farther east. It's in between dodges and the island to the north.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 10, 2009, 05:43 PM
 The little lake is ready I even seen a few snowmobile tracks out there.  Alotta the snow blew off.  There are some slushy spots that should turn into white ice.  I measured 4in of good ice off the grade about 75 yds.  Gonna hit the 24 ft hole tommorow morning.  Should be even better after -10 tonight.  Stay safe fellas shes gettin there. 8)

Bigblue: big blue froze over last night snow free!  should be out there soon
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Dec 10, 2009, 06:23 PM
Headin over there in a few to see if it blew off or slushed up and froze into white ice.
Arctic armor check......
Ice spikes check.........
Wild turkey check........

Yup im ready!

LOL! Leave that turkey home!!! NO GOOD!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: onemore on Dec 10, 2009, 06:50 PM

how many lakes have gone to spit and had to be drained because of yellow bass?  TOO MANY.  What needs to be done is everyone of those that comes out a hole taken out and I bet even then you still wouldn't notice a difference.  It would take years.  Just think how many eyes those fish eat.  You can jig a spoon as fast as you want and they come charging.  Just think about that.  Keep em all
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 11, 2009, 12:30 PM
They were biting pretty steadily today.  Whites,Yellows,Eyes,Crappies the whole shabang.  Snowmobilers thought the ice was safe enough. :-\
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ToddK on Dec 11, 2009, 01:21 PM
I'm stuck down here in southern Iowa waiting for the bigger lakes to freeze up.  I am going to get the gear ready and head up there this weekend.   This will be a one time trip for me (due to the drive time) so if anybody has any advice it would be appreciated.  I am not looking to steal anybodys "honeyhole" just a point in the right direction would be appreciated to keep me from wondering aimlessly.   Send me a P.M.  if you can help out in anyway.  I have never been on the lake and am just looking for a good starting point.    thanks!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: BarbGoFish on Dec 11, 2009, 04:15 PM
In past years find the Island and go a bit past it on the West Side 14"fow and good luck..... They seem to bite early and then at dark... I hope I can get up there this weekend...
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 11, 2009, 05:16 PM
Id give the main lake a few days yet beings it froze over after the little lake. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Dec 12, 2009, 07:06 AM
Let the fun begin!

http://globegazette.com/articles/2009/12/12/news/latest/doc4b22852b0d65f948946065.txt#vmix_media_id=7894718
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 12, 2009, 03:58 PM
Went over to the little lake this morning found anywhere from 3-8 inches.  The fish didnt wanna cooperate tho.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: dragscreamer on Dec 13, 2009, 07:33 PM
Went to the little lake lots of fish on the vexilars but only got six yellows and two cigar eyes
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Dec 13, 2009, 09:50 PM
HI everybody,

The 2 boys and I fished the little lake all weekend. Sat night we had 6 yellows and 6 small eyes in 11'. Sun. morning was A BUST 5 dinks. Now the fun fish story Sunday Night my older boy caught a 9 to 9.5 pounder walleye!!!!! Now, the SAD DAD story I took the picture before releasing Her but forgot to save the or hit the delete button. I felt terrible, but he was really cool about. Oh 1 yellow and 15 small eyes.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icey kid on Dec 14, 2009, 03:54 PM
Sounds like that must have been a blast! I would love to catch a walleye that big ice or not. Congrats
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Phish on Dec 14, 2009, 04:57 PM
HI everybody,

The 2 boys and I fished the little lake all weekend. Sat night we had 6 yellows and 6 small eyes in 11'. Sun. morning was A BUST 5 dinks. Now the fun fish story Sunday Night my older boy caught a 9 to 9.5 pounder walleye!!!!! Now, the SAD DAD story I took the picture before releasing Her but forgot to save the or hit the delete button. I felt terrible, but he was really cool about. Oh 1 yellow and 15 small eyes.



I applaud you for teaching your kids about c&r.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 15, 2009, 10:52 AM
3  20+ inchers last night.  Not on clear lake though :laugh:

The house is going out tommorow afternoon.  Found 8 inches in most areas shes ready. :tipup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Dec 16, 2009, 12:50 PM
HI everybody,

The 2 boys and I fished the little lake all weekend. Sat night we had 6 yellows and 6 small eyes in 11'. Sun. morning was A BUST 5 dinks. Now the fun fish story Sunday Night my older boy caught a 9 to 9.5 pounder walleye!!!!! Now, the SAD DAD story I took the picture before releasing Her but forgot to save the or hit the delete button. I felt terrible, but he was really cool about. Oh 1 yellow and 15 small eyes.


I really hope this is true but it sounds like BS to me....  Blowing smoke??? :whistle:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Dec 16, 2009, 05:59 PM
Thats my dads post but im the 15 year old boy who caught that walleye and its true there bud! My dad deleted the picture on my phone on accident but its alright it couldve happened to anyone.....i was thinking the walleye was about 10 pounds tho!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: roberts on Dec 16, 2009, 06:09 PM
 well i dont know whats  going go but i need to know   if i can go fishing   thursday    is the ice ok    8 in   and    may be drive on or rtv      from famer beach   or do i do little lake      any info  that is good   nothing eles  call me     641-210-5517     we are starting  out about 10 am      to try it    or should we just go to the   bar     and who has wax worms up there or do i need to get them before i leave    ect   let me know  thanks roberts
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: roberts on Dec 16, 2009, 06:14 PM
crappy buster    give me a call   did you get the shack out to day ?
  what you think  to be safe  rtv or tuck    i need to know what to bring
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Dec 16, 2009, 06:33 PM
Here's a link you can copy and paste in your browser. It's the new map of Little Lake. They dredged some deep holes. Should be some good fishing this winter.

http://www.iowadnr.gov/fish/fishing/lakes/maps/cle17little.pdf
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: roberts on Dec 16, 2009, 07:07 PM
Here's a link you can copy and paste in your browser. It's the new map of Little Lake. They dredged some deep holes. Should be some good fishing this winter.

http://www.iowadnr.gov/fish/fishing/lakes/maps/cle17little.pdf
what do you think go to go or what ??
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: roberts on Dec 16, 2009, 07:16 PM
i see on a link  that are offing   guide  sevirce   on clear lake for ice fishing   i think like $200,00 a day   whats  with that     hell let the good old boy take them out for a day to remamber  we even clen fish   and help you eat them   lol  just a heads up    we all could do that

i think
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Dec 16, 2009, 07:20 PM
what do you think go to go or what ??
Yeah I would go. Try out them new holes in little.  The lake is good for yellows at sunrise and sunset.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: roberts on Dec 16, 2009, 07:37 PM
Thats my dads post but im the 15 year old boy who caught that walleye and its true there bud! My dad deleted the picture on my phone on accident but its alright it couldve happened to anyone.....i was thinking the walleye was about 10 pounds tho!
i hope you all had fun and i know  how it goes with the pics    thats what i use two of them  just in case but i am noy here  for  saying i got the big one    i just like to fish    like ever  one eles      keep your hook wet is all i can say
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 16, 2009, 09:53 PM
Its pretty much all good for an atv and portable on the little lake.  We brought our house out today smack dab into a tough bite. When we were hooking up to bring the house out we talked to someone that drove their car out.  I wouldnt no matter how small it is.........The ice isnt very consistent.  Theres 10 inches of junk in some areas and 7 inches of good ice in other areas.  5 in others.  Be safe or wait another week.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: iowaperch on Dec 17, 2009, 10:11 AM
hey crappie buster, i think i talked to you tuesday night on clear lake either it was you or your buddy i was set up with another guy right by me east of you i believe. but how has the fishing been i think we ended up with twelve yellows that night. did you get your permie out yet, i am hoping i get my deer this weekend and we get enought ice to get ours out over christmas. where did you guys put it.  we defintatly should meet up some time and fish the hell out of that little lake and see if we can find them dang eyes. i am pretty excited to fish that little lake i love finding my own fish rather than go to the herds of people, i like when the herds of people come to me not lol. i did notice something interesting walking off the lake tuesday i had my lantern on and i got up in the shallow water by the reeds and i could see fish everywhere through the ice i mean they were every where everything from yellows walleyes and crappie it was pretty neat if it wouldnt of so damn cold i would of tried fishing it with out the shack. i tried silver lake yesterday pretty slow i caught 6 big perch but i caught tons that were about 3 inches the biggest i caught was 11. well i am planning on going out tonight to clear lake maybe see ya around. if ya get a hot bite my number is 7122980359 if you get me your number ill give ya a shout to if i find em
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: roberts on Dec 17, 2009, 05:53 PM
went and fished the big MUD PUDDEL TO DAY 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: roberts on Dec 17, 2009, 05:59 PM
opps it got messed up and on the BIG MUDDPUDDLE  it was verry   slow  fish water   that was 15-10     had wax worms   cut bait   minnoes     auto jiggig poles    still fish   cut about 20 holes to day    only marked  one fish   got it to bit    but soft mouthed  but had fun got to try out all of the stuff and learned  about my flasher    that was fun   had other people   that move out a lot father than me     thay did not even get a bit   12 ft water   -14    so   west is not the way to go  i think east is    di talk with two guts coming off from farmers beach this moring about 10 am  thay had two yellows   is all   
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: roberts on Dec 17, 2009, 06:46 PM
the mudpuddle   had    8-9  in of ice on is what i fished  on  to day
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 18, 2009, 01:04 PM
I just got done cleaning yellows for an hr and a half.  Got 8-10 lbs of fillets  To bad it wasnt walleyes :(
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jerad on Dec 18, 2009, 02:40 PM
sounds like the yellows are biting good.  Mind if I ask what part of the lake you were fishing and how deep?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jagerdog on Dec 18, 2009, 08:59 PM
I fished farmers tonight with the silver back goriila and his brother.  We caught a few yellows and a bunch of short walleyes.  I'll probably fish lake X tomorrow morning and hit the little lake for the night bite.  Gotta go clean a few fish and charge batteries.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 18, 2009, 09:13 PM
They arent using the deep stuff at least not that ive observed.  We're set up in 10 fow in close proximity to "deeper" water. Put another hurt on em tonight got about 30-40 yellows.  Some walleyes that were so close to 14 it wasnt even funny the eyes were nice and plump if they came outta the river I woulda kept em.  People are starting to drive out also. My buddies brought their cars out tonight.  Seen a blazer out there also. 13inches of white ice where we were set up.  Imma wait a few more days for my rig.  Im pretty sure it should be a madhouse this weekend lots of people out tonight and still a few coming out as I left at 830.  Stay safe guys :tipup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jagerdog on Dec 18, 2009, 09:41 PM
Finished cleaning fish.  It went fast, cause I didn't have many.  Not much in their gullets but a few grass shrimp and some blood worms.  The fish bit well and must have been hungry.  I caught most of the fish on wax worms, but got a few on power bait honey worms and gulp blood worms.  Walleyes seemed to prefer the wax worms.  2 flags, but got stripped, so it was probably yellows.  Tomorrow, I shall hammer them!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: roberts on Dec 19, 2009, 05:37 AM
you in the small llake or  farmers beach ?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 19, 2009, 11:50 AM
Im fishing the little lake.  If that question was directed at me.

ATTENTION IOWA DNR if you read these forums.  Could you please put some of peoples hard earned dollars to work.  And clean out the Mcintosh ramp?  It'd take about 2 minutes of your time.  It baffles me why theyd plow everything in the park and not clean up the most used part of the park? ???  It would be greatly greatly appreciated.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Dec 19, 2009, 04:53 PM
Crappiebuster it looks like your shack is right over the 28 ft hole in little lake?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 19, 2009, 11:48 PM
Whoever plowed out the ramp.  Thank you! all fishermen and women appreciate it. ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Wally Lindner on Dec 20, 2009, 04:59 AM
Cigars, Cigarettes.  ::)  and Yellow basstards!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: roberts on Dec 20, 2009, 07:56 AM
drove my pick up out on the little lake yesterday   fishing was slow     did not stay   long and moved
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 20, 2009, 11:56 AM
Yep yesterday was way way slow musta been the constant buzz of the power augers. And generators.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 20, 2009, 05:13 PM
Yep yesterday was way way slow musta been the constant buzz of the power augers. And generators.

We cleaned 29 yellows last night and a good friend cleaned 34.  Lots of short walleyes.  I wish we could find some keepers.    All in the Little Lake!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Dec 20, 2009, 08:11 PM
The boy and I managed 23 yellows toniight along with 15 to 20 cigars. stayed away from the crowd. Crazy seeing those big trucks out there.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coketeck on Dec 20, 2009, 08:56 PM
Hey luckydog. Hope to head over xmas week. As I am looking thru other posts if I hand you the camera I will only have the small fish in hand. Anyway have a safe truckin week and see you on the ice.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Dec 20, 2009, 09:05 PM
haha I deserved that one for sure.. good luck out there.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: dragscreamer on Dec 20, 2009, 09:50 PM
went out this morning about 6 fished til 5 tonight caught 200 yellows 2 whites and about 15 cigars that is the most yellows i've ever caught out there in one day i have the secret spot in 10 fow
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Wally Walleye on Dec 20, 2009, 10:34 PM
Does anybody rent ice shaks up there?   Need one for the night of Friday, Jan 8.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 21, 2009, 08:15 AM
pauls fishing guide has houses. 50 for 6 hrs. Heated and ready to fish call
6415292359 ask for kevan
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jagerdog on Dec 22, 2009, 08:22 PM
Fished from 4 til 6 tonight and caught a bunch of yellows and small walleyes.  I marked a lot of fish that wouldn't bite.  I switched baits a lot and caught fish on wax worms, gulp, cut bait, minnows, and power bait.  Everything seemed to work, just not too well.  I'd guess I caught less than 25% of the fish I marked.  I tried everything from aggressive jigging to dead sticking, and again, it all worked, just not all that well.  I'd suspect a lot of the marked fish were walleyes, cause even the ones I caught were finicky.  I think I'll take tomorrow off, fry some fish, and catch up with the wife and kids.  I'm also going to tear into my vex cable, as it is giving me trouble.  10 years of abuse (and a mark that looks suspiciously like my labs baby molars)  have taken a toll.  Wish me luck, as a new one is $109.  Tight lines everyone.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 24, 2009, 11:05 AM
We pulled off last night.  Didnt wanna even take one chance of getting our beloved shack stranded out there.  The fishing was hot I pounded the yellows
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: FISH-MITS on Dec 24, 2009, 11:52 AM
Hey buster u pull off with a black Dodge?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Wally Lindner on Dec 24, 2009, 12:03 PM
Has anyone caught a walleye between 14-20 inches?  Any yellows over 11 inches?  No response expected.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 24, 2009, 12:35 PM
I know of a few keepers caught plus one 29" Pig.  This fall the Carp fisherman seen good numbers of keeper Walleyes in there Nets so I hope we can find some soon.  I have caught a couple of Yellows over 11".  That is a big Yellow.  I would like to find some Crappies!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 24, 2009, 02:50 PM
Yup I was in the black Dodge Ram my buddy had the Red F-150.  Its a wait and see thing.  Looks like we may come out alright?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jagerdog on Dec 24, 2009, 08:28 PM
I fished from 4 to 6 again  tonight and hammered the yelllows.  It was non stop for at least an hour.  I kept 21 (for luck) but must have been over 100 when I quit, and they were still biting.  The fish ran a little smaller and no walleyes, but they sure bit good.  For the last week I was probably less than 25% catching marked fish.  Tonight it was more like 95%.  They hit everything, but wax worms was best.  Came home and cooked the ones I got Wed.  Now it's time to clean the kitchen and clean fish again.  Merry Christmas everyone, and good fishing!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 25, 2009, 11:14 AM
The storm really turned the yellows on it seems.  I hope alot of people got their shacks off.  That rain and this up and coming wet heavy snow spells disaster for the ice. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: rawfish on Dec 25, 2009, 02:17 PM
looks like there was a red F250 on the little lake today. Guess the ice is safe.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bflatisbest on Dec 25, 2009, 05:26 PM
Hello!

New here and glad I found the site. Im planning to make a very early trip up to Clear Lake tomorrow and a curious about this Little Lake. Is it possible I could get directions from anyone as to how to get there from Des Moines? I'd love to get some quality fishing in.

Mike
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: corey2145 on Dec 25, 2009, 06:03 PM
Hello!

New here and glad I found the site. Im planning to make a very early trip up to Clear Lake tomorrow and a curious about this Little Lake. Is it possible I could get directions from anyone as to how to get there from Des Moines? I'd love to get some quality fishing in.

Mike
go up i 35 exit clear lake take 18 west to ventura. you will hit one stop light on 18 go south at stop light. you will be heading south go to the stop sign take a left. go down the hill and the little lake is on the south side of the road
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Dec 25, 2009, 06:14 PM
go up i 35 exit clear lake take 18 west to ventura. you will hit one stop light on 18 go south at stop light. you will be heading south go to the stop sign take a left. go down the hill and the little lake is on the south side of the road
Once you get to the stop sign in Ventura and turn east you can also keep following the road to Mcintosh State park, it's about a mile after you turn. Here is a map of the Little Lake. Mcintosh is the boat ramp on the east side of the lake. There is plenty of parking there and you can walk out to where most of the guys are fishing.

http://www.iowadnr.gov/fish/fishing/lakes/maps/cle17little.pdf
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bflatisbest on Dec 25, 2009, 06:20 PM
Thank you both very much.

      First time ive gotten solid directions about places to fish on this lake. Unfortunatley no shanty this time out due to slow shipping but ill get to test out my new lx-5 and auger. Hopefully the weather will be forgiving!


Mike
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jagerdog on Dec 26, 2009, 07:41 PM
Buster,
     I'll take your music over your neighbor's generator anytime. ;D  Also, I like the name for your shanty.  It has that Clark Griswold/Uncle Eddie "crapter$ full" feel to it!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Dec 26, 2009, 07:56 PM
I was trying to figure out who had the music jacked up Wednesday night as they we're working to pull off with disregard for everyone around. Lack of ice etiquette really for the civilized folk. Going out and blaring the stereo just contaminates/pollutes the experience for everyone. Wouldn't of been a such a bad thing had it not been so blatant. For those who come from out of the area - who make a trip of it - its just plain impolite. Had it gone on for much longer I may have had to of called a couple of old college wrestling buddies from the area to seek counsel on the spectacle. 

wrestling buddies... Some one had a bad christmas!  :flex: LOL!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: roberts on Dec 27, 2009, 09:50 AM
well i run a raido   also    it dont sound load in the shack   but if you get out of it     you can hear it on  the out side     any ways        is the ice up there fit  to drive on   now after   the rain and snow    have all of next week off       nothing eles    the bottle bass bitting   lol      let me know  thanks  roberts
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: been rippin lip on Dec 27, 2009, 02:14 PM
Ok now that Christmas is over... Buster you gotta be kidding me! The way individuals are stacked up in there off that dock - you want to talk about a 50 ft rule. LMFAO! Man you best be breaking out ur' citation book and be issuing a few. The conditions on Wednesday (wind) warranted the less fortunate individuals in their "portables" to seek a little wind break but who cares about those of lesser stature in their "portables" - right buster. ;) Let me tell you this is IOWA - you may want to consider taking you're family truckster/camper/X-over 30 miles North (dont forget ur buckets) so that you're protected by the one on the books? Bottom line there were several tents/bystanders with in ear shoot of that crappy Raggae music you we're playing - outside of you're so called personal zone that you're trying to enforce who we're effected by the antics. It might be hard for ya buster but how bout cutting the little guys a break... theres plenty of those yellows to be caught a couple of times a day for any one who goes out there and tries their luck. In the end how bout displaying a little consideration by keeping ur' music turned down to a personal level...
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: been rippin lip on Dec 27, 2009, 02:16 PM

just cause you don't like raggae music, doesnt make it crappy, I'm not saying, I'm just saying, and wrestling buddies? wow, are we in fifth grade!!!! LOL!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: dragscreamer on Dec 27, 2009, 07:22 PM
went out to the little lake around 10am fished til 5:30 or so caught 1 white bass 10 cigar eyes 1 keeper eye and about 150 yellows not a bad day
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 28, 2009, 01:19 PM
Dragscreamer.........G lad to hear you picked up a keeper eye...........Its almost like winning the lottery catching one of them over there anymore. :tipup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Brushy19 on Dec 28, 2009, 10:32 PM
Hey guys,  This is my first post on this site and wont be the last.  I've been visiting pretty frequently for the last year or so and decided it was time to join yet another great outdoors site and hopefully share/gain some experiences. 

This Friday my brother and I are planning an all day trip to Clear.  We plan on fishing little lake, but really have no clue where to go.  I pulled up the dredging map from the IDNR website, so I have that going for us.  I guess all I'm really looking for is what depth they seem to be staying around and if they're close to the deeper water drop offs or if they've been mostly on the flats.  Sounds like if you find um you're going to have a blast all day long.   Thanks for any info in advance.  And hopefully we'll be talking soon!!

Brushy
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: roberts on Dec 29, 2009, 08:33 AM
so whats the ice like up there now   can i get my pick up  on the ice or not    thinking on comming up wensday   and fish the day away    ?   
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Outback on Dec 29, 2009, 02:27 PM
Also curious on the ice conditions.  Are people driving on the ice and is there much snow on the ice?  Sounds like the yellows are biting good so may take the 2 hr trek to get up there this week.  Thanks
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: roberts on Dec 29, 2009, 06:57 PM
from what the dnr   said today    ther is  trucks on the small lake      some bad ruts   where  people had got stuck   but with this cold   it should be good to go  i will be up there   in the afternoon my self  bringing life jacket and shoval   lol  and chain
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Woody61 on Dec 29, 2009, 07:03 PM
Are the yellows biting during the day at all or is it just a early and late thing?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Walleye Buster on Dec 30, 2009, 09:23 PM
have anyone fished it latley
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Woody61 on Dec 30, 2009, 09:44 PM
Are the yellows biting during the day at all or is it just a early and late thing?

Bump
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: iowaperch on Dec 31, 2009, 09:01 AM
was out last night. got set up about four thirty in twenty two feet didnt mark a fish so moved about 10 yards and found 12 foot of water. once i got the holes all skimmed out and my line down i was instantly marking fish from about five to 8 but the retards had lock jaw last night i threw everything i had at them even my chubby darter that i bought two years ago that i think was my biggest waste of money(in two years have not caught a fish on it) it was crazy all the fish we marked. i did end up catching on white bass and that was the only bite me and my buddy had all night. i am hoping it picks up but the last two days i have been out it has been real slow is every one else experiancing the same thing or am i doing somthing wrong? hope to get the permanent out today ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: OutdoorMaster on Dec 31, 2009, 11:16 AM
Was out there last couple of days, deep water didn't pan out, shallow water we had some schools of yellows come through on a periodic basis, nothing specific for bait yet.

Still looking for the 40+ honey holes though....

It is nice to drive out there now, just watch out for the ruts.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: mike_skoges on Dec 31, 2009, 04:03 PM
Drove out there yesterday and was fishing in 17 feet of water took a while to find them but finally did. Caught 30 Yellows in about 15 minutes as fast as I could bring them up the hole. Just need to find them. I might have a rough GPS coordinate if someone wants to send me a PM. This was my first time to clear lake and won't be back for a while as I live in Cedar Rapids area and I just can catch way to many walleye over here to travel all the way up there for the yellows. Good luck guys let me know if you want to know where I was getting them at... I know they move around but it is a good starting point.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: whip2 on Dec 31, 2009, 05:07 PM
Thanks for the info Mike. Are they driving Full Size pickups out or just smaller vehicles?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: OutdoorMaster on Dec 31, 2009, 05:13 PM
Thanks for the info Mike. Are they driving Full Size pickups out or just smaller vehicles?

We had a full sized 3/4 ton out there. It is plenty thick to drive out there.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: whip2 on Jan 01, 2010, 06:57 AM
Thanks OutdoorMaster.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: justin29 on Jan 01, 2010, 08:13 PM
heading up there in the morning.  looking for advice on where to start fishing, and what bait is working best for yellows
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Jan 01, 2010, 09:09 PM
worst nite out there so far! 0 fish :( tryed a spot a ways away from the billion people....marked a few fish no takers! be out on the lake the next couple days!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: OutdoorMaster on Jan 01, 2010, 09:57 PM
Caught 30 Yellows in about 15 minutes as fast as I could bring them up the hole. Just need to find them.

You're right, when they come, they come. We had two poles out each initially and we had all we could do to keep bait on the hook of one pole. By the time the lure hit the bottom, you had another yellow. Its nice to see the Marcum lit up like a christmas tree!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: glowboy on Jan 02, 2010, 08:31 AM
went out last nite from 3 to 6 caught 6 big yellows in 10 foot  slow but it was action nothin on dead stick all jiggin thank god for good heater
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: glowboy on Jan 02, 2010, 08:49 AM
has anybody had any luck on five island lake in emmetsburg wonderin if the walleys and crappies are in the south end or north end and is ice thick enough
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jagerdog on Jan 03, 2010, 08:37 PM
The vanilla gorilla and I knocked them dead tonight.  We hauled them up for over an hour straight.  We had 12 over 11" too.  No walleyes though.  I'll try to post pictures later.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Jan 03, 2010, 08:42 PM
how many permanent ice houses are on clear lake? has anyone been fishin up by farmers?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: slammin slabs on Jan 03, 2010, 11:38 PM
The vanilla gorilla and I knocked them dead tonight.  We hauled them up for over an hour straight.  We had 12 over 11" too.  No walleyes though.  I'll try to post pictures later.
ganna be there fishin tomarrow what are they biting on and where  are they biting would take gps coordinates if anyone has them im from algona and dont get there much but would like a starting point thanks.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Jan 04, 2010, 05:18 AM
You're right, when they come, they come. We had two poles out each initially and we had all we could do to keep bait on the hook of one pole. By the time the lure hit the bottom, you had another yellow. Its nice to see the Marcum lit up like a christmas tree!!

REALLY ??? Hmmmm... Where where ya all set up. Big or little lake? What depth
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Jan 04, 2010, 05:20 AM
The vanilla gorilla and I knocked them dead tonight.  We hauled them up for over an hour straight.  We had 12 over 11" too.  No walleyes though.  I'll try to post pictures later.

Where are the pic ???

Something is fishy :unsure:


Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: isuhunter on Jan 04, 2010, 09:28 AM
WOW, spent a few hours on Clear lake on Saturday afternoon.  Only caught 1 and had many many bites. Outdoormaster was right next to me and caught his fair share!

I love ice fishing even if its -15 degrees out!

Never seen so many ice huts set up in one area really neat to see, think I have found my newest addiction -- Ice Fishing!!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: OutdoorMaster on Jan 04, 2010, 10:32 AM
REALLY ??? Hmmmm... Where where ya all set up. Big or little lake? What depth

We were at Little Lake. Depth ~13-18ft. I won't give out the exact loc, but i can tell you that if one were to make an observation of Little Lake over the past week, everyone is spreading out over the ice. The local's shanty's were close to the shore last week, now they are spreading out.

Once you get one yellow, you have a few min before the school comes, and then its to the point that you had better be the world's fastest bait hooker, cause if your not feeding them they will move.

We had a Marcum, as we were telling the ISUHunter group when they were here, don't know about their fishin tactics yet... :P but when they came to the ice we had 4, when we left a hour or so later, we had plenty of yellow and a couple Walleye.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: iowaperch on Jan 04, 2010, 10:46 AM
keeper walleyes outdoor master?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: OutdoorMaster on Jan 04, 2010, 10:47 AM
keeper walleyes outdoor master?

negative. none yet. too small
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: OutdoorMaster on Jan 04, 2010, 10:49 AM
keeper walleyes outdoor master?

generally they have been following the yellows around
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: OutdoorMaster on Jan 04, 2010, 10:56 AM
how many permanent ice houses are on clear lake? has anyone been fishin up by farmers?

30ish or so. We saw some shacks out there, but if they are still out there i guess they are having some luck and not telling anyone yet.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: OutdoorMaster on Jan 04, 2010, 10:57 AM
worst nite out there so far! 0 fish :( tryed a spot a ways away from the billion people....marked a few fish no takers! be out on the lake the next couple days!

any luck yet?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: iowaperch on Jan 04, 2010, 11:32 AM
was out last night in our permie(big old camper) the fishing was very slow but the vikes game on the radio was very good ;D. we caught three and i was out there from one to six.  My buddie fished right in front of my shack and realized that we were sitting right on a two foot drop(didnt know that when we put it out) he was in ten foot of water up against the shack pretty much and i was in tweleve inside it didnt seem to matter though we both marked and caught about the same amount of fish.  the fish surveyor stopped by and said it was slow all around the lake. people mostly had one or two and one group had twenty but he said they had been out there pretty much all day.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Jan 04, 2010, 02:51 PM
The boys and I put 15 yellows in the bucket on sunday nite in 2 hours in 12ft. we keep trying spots out away from "little lake central".  Have heard of some 50 to 100 fish days but that is hard to believe with the artic blast we have been under. Might start working farmers been pretty quiet on that side of the channel..   
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Jan 04, 2010, 03:14 PM
30ish or so. We saw some shacks out there, but if they are still out there i guess they are having some luck and not telling anyone yet.
are they around farmers bay?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: OutdoorMaster on Jan 04, 2010, 03:57 PM
are they around farmers bay?

couldn't tell at the time, just saw activity. i'm sure there are by now
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: YellowSlayer on Jan 04, 2010, 04:02 PM
couldn't tell at the time, just saw activity. i'm sure there are by now

Moving my shack to farmers whenever i can get off work early enuff.  Fishd lil lake saturday from bout one in afternoon and stayd till 6 sun morning and we had 18 yellows.  No walleyes even after dark.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Jan 04, 2010, 05:54 PM
im thinkin bout moving my shack out ther soon here. first spot im goona put it is at farmers then go from there.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: slammin slabs on Jan 04, 2010, 09:08 PM
im thinkin bout moving my shack out ther soon here. first spot im goona put it is at farmers then go from there.
this coldfront sucks hope it breaks soon. was over that way tonight and wanted to go out and try it but was dark out and not familiar enough with the lake and didnt want to be where everyone else was.  just bought a new lazer mag today and really wanted to try it out.  seen somehouses out around the lake.  might head that way sat or sun hopefully things pickup. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: kauffman_matt on Jan 06, 2010, 10:18 PM
Was thinking about heading up this weekend.  Can 4 wheelers get around on the lake?  I am south of ft dodge and don't want to drag it up if it won't do me any good.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: huntaholic on Jan 09, 2010, 03:59 AM
Was thinking about heading up this weekend.  Can 4 wheelers get around on the lake?  I am south of ft dodge and don't want to drag it up if it won't do me any good.
I was down a couple days ago and everyone was driving trucks out. Ended up with 10 yellows and 6 little eyes.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Jan 09, 2010, 06:06 PM
what depth are most guys catchin fish at? by farmers bay?

:tipup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishing nut on Jan 10, 2010, 01:03 AM
what depth are most guys catchin fish at? by farmers bay?

:tipup:
               We were on clearlake Sat. evening and were in the crappies. No yellows doz. walleyes, to small to keep and caught 4 crappies 2 that were 13 " BIG slab crappies. What a suprise, thought we would be in the yellows, but guess not these HUGE crappies came in instead. What a treat to see these monsters instead of the typical yellows. Might post pic. if can do so.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: thordoggydog on Jan 10, 2010, 08:34 AM
sweet... gotta like those big slabs. Have seen some in there but always few and far between!!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: glowboy on Jan 10, 2010, 09:50 AM
went last nite caught 11 big yellows, buddys caught 7 ,. Gonna try today maybe the channel ,heard there gettin them there, just rumors, gotta try, heard farmers is pretty slow, pump house must be bad havent seen to many people over there yet ,everybody stay warm.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 10, 2010, 11:59 AM
Hope people are practicing catch and release with the breeding stock crappies. :-\

The lake is in a bad state now from the overharvest of walleyes. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coldfisherman on Jan 10, 2010, 02:15 PM
We finally got out last night for the first time. We're off farmers. I got skunked but bug managed 4 small yellows and one keeper eye. Hope it's better tonight.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Jan 10, 2010, 09:35 PM
fished the east side of the lake tonite! 23 yellows 12ft of water.....guess there is fish all over the lake and not just in the little lake! gonna fish during the day 2moro and see what i can do on the east side again!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: glowboy on Jan 10, 2010, 09:53 PM
went today from 3 to 6 got 7 yellows would like some eyes or even the crappies does anybody know how the channle is doin sounds like the east side of lake might me a scoutin trip on a good day to travle the lake
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: glowboy on Jan 10, 2010, 09:55 PM
fished the east side of the lake tonite! 23 yellows 12ft of water.....guess there is fish all over the lake and not just in the little lake! gonna fish during the day 2moro and see what i can do on the east side again!
u buy the sea wall area if u dont mind me askin
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: iowaperch on Jan 11, 2010, 09:40 AM
spent the whole weekend on clear lake in our ice shack. Nothing fast and furious by any means.  Friday night was our best i thinkk we got 15 fish. saturday morning we got five. saturday evening was real slow i think we only got a couple, and sunday morning we got seven and six more throughout the day the evening bite saturday and sunday sucked. Nothing was caught on our rods over night either.  I am wondering about the channel.  I feel bad for the lone guy that was out there at the start of last week cause last night the majority of the people were there. i guess thats what happenes when you tell the local bait shops and one or two people you pounding fish.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IceMan*Holm on Jan 12, 2010, 06:15 PM
Is anyone having anyluck after dark?  ???   I work all day and would like to get into a few at night. Any info would be great
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishing nut on Jan 12, 2010, 06:25 PM
Is anyone having anyluck after dark?  ???   I work all day and would like to get into a few at night. Any info would be great
                                                                                                                                                                   I have not had to much luck after 6, but I think it all depends on where you are. Most of the bites come between 3 and 5pm. for me. In the past years we have caught fish as late as 11- 12pm. Every day is different and this year is just that very different. Good luck
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Jan 12, 2010, 06:56 PM


drill many holes and when you find fish you will catch them.  try 8ft - 10ft.  use GLOW jigs.  around the open water holes have always been good after dark.  Down Town!


                                                                                                                                                                   I have not had to much luck after 6, but I think it all depends on where you are. Most of the bites come between 3 and 5pm. for me. In the past years we have caught fish as late as 11- 12pm. Every day is different and this year is just that very different. Good luck
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jagerdog on Jan 12, 2010, 09:37 PM
Here some nice ones that the silverback and I got last weekend.  We kept the 40 biggest and had 12 that were 11" or more.  Still trying to master pictures.....

(http://i451.photobucket.com/albums/qq240/mjd9366/101_2145-1.jpg)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jagerdog on Jan 12, 2010, 09:42 PM
A couple more photos of a few fresh from the pan and one from my "take a kid fishing" trip.  I was able to teach the vanilla gorilla how to use my vex, so now I'm qualified to teach small children and council the criminally insane...

(http://i451.photobucket.com/albums/qq240/mjd9366/101_2147.jpg)
(http://i451.photobucket.com/albums/qq240/mjd9366/101_2149.jpg)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: iowaperch on Jan 14, 2010, 10:45 AM
any new reports from clear lake. i am hoping to make it over there todat some time to our permie.  it seems like  that it has been more of a day bite. the last couple evenings we have been there in the usual "prime time" we have maked little to no fish. we are in 12 fow of water so it makes me wonder if the evening bite is happening in eight or ten foot of water i wouldnt think that it would make that big of a difference being in tweleve or ten but i am seriously starting to wonder why we cant mark or catch fish from the 4-6 time period.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: roberts on Jan 14, 2010, 05:40 PM
can you say lock jaw     if the fish are bitting   is all  hush      if thay are trying to find out  then  it all opem game     so i give up     go fish    have fun for  the day     it dont realy matter    every thing has changed    this year      i have made   a few trips up there       and any time on the ice is always fun    prime rib is chepper   but      it the idea of being out there      dont need  a 30 in waleye        ect   i do it to  get a way and get out of the house  if you hit them  wounder full   if not you and your buddy had a good day   on the ice    there is nothing cheep   about ice fishing   eather  is any thing eles   so injoy   at least there   is not  a jet sky     flying by you at   30 mph        but last year i did have  a i dont know what you call them    paire sale    sky    guy   hit my truck      that was fun to see    he did not get hurt tg     but   keep your rods up and your line wet   
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishing nut on Jan 14, 2010, 05:50 PM
I was out Wed. from 4-6:30 in about 9 fow. One little perch, and very little on the vex.  Its like real estate location- location -location
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: roberts on Jan 14, 2010, 05:56 PM
i fished the 9 ft   of water     got two eyes is all     to small     to keep     but no yellows      dont know   but had fun being there   
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: iowaperch on Jan 15, 2010, 08:52 AM
was out yesterday from 1pm-6pm and it flat out sucked. i marked two fish and caught one yellow i dont know what the deal is but it has been dead lately
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: KrappieSlayer on Jan 15, 2010, 09:56 AM
was out yesterday from 1pm-6pm and it flat out sucked. i marked two fish and caught one yellow i dont know what the deal is but it has been dead lately

Maybe you guys fished the yellows out too..  ???  haha
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Wally Lindner on Jan 15, 2010, 10:04 AM
Good one, Krappieslayer.  Don't know if thats possible with that species.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: KrappieSlayer on Jan 15, 2010, 10:22 AM
Good one, Krappieslayer.  Don't know if thats possible with that species.

How many people actually go out to target and enjoy catching yellows?  Apparently, it must be popular. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Wally Lindner on Jan 15, 2010, 01:00 PM
How many people actually go out to target and enjoy catching yellows?  Apparently, it must be popular. 
The answer to that question should be none.  However its catching on now since the walleyes went extinct in that lake.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: kauffman_matt on Jan 15, 2010, 08:37 PM
How many people actually go out to target and enjoy catching yellows?  Apparently, it must be popular. 

I fish yellows all the time.  I love fishing them because they come in schools when they hit its usually some pretty fast fishing.  Personally I think that they are better eating than walleye.  I learned to ice fish in Minnesota and we would go to Winnie and Leech Lake all the time for yellows. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Jan 16, 2010, 12:25 AM
where are most peoples permanent ice houses? im goona take mine out sunday. just want a good idea where people are taking them..and where most of the people are at.
icefisher
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Jan 16, 2010, 01:47 AM
1/14/10   ;)

(http://manitobaanglers.com/uploads/forums/thumbs/t_untitled_0_00_01-17__2_.jpg)

(http://manitobaanglers.com/uploads/forums/thumbs/t_untitled_0_00_02-16.jpg)

(http://manitobaanglers.com/uploads/forums/thumbs/t_untitled_0_00_10-04.jpg)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bull_Gill_Mike on Jan 16, 2010, 04:58 AM
Nice Gator! What did she measure?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: YellowSlayer on Jan 16, 2010, 05:37 AM
I'm with you on that I love fishing yellows I totally agree with you that they taste better than eyes and I think they fight a lot more than an eye
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: porkchop1 on Jan 17, 2010, 12:17 AM
 :o  WOW
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: KrappieSlayer on Jan 17, 2010, 01:24 AM
Very nice Shanty!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: roberts on Jan 17, 2010, 07:49 AM
went and fished the mudd  puddle   yesterday    still no luck    did not even get any thing on the flasher at all   
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: c.r.rick on Jan 17, 2010, 10:01 AM
hey shanty nice fish buddy and yellowslayer ill give ya that the yellows fight harder then eyes but no way do they taste better!!  ill take perch, eyes and crappies over a yellow anyday but we all have our own taste buds ;)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: iowaperch on Jan 18, 2010, 10:06 AM
any body have any luck out there this weekend ???  we spent the night friday night. we fished from 3 on friday to 3 saturday and didnt even get a bite in our permie.  i think it is a dead sea right now and i also do believe from what i have heard the numbers are down on everything out there. talked to a bunch of people who had little to no luck this weekend any where on the lake from the small lake island farmers and the pump house.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Jan 18, 2010, 12:55 PM
January is typically a slow month for ice fishing IMO. It should pick up again next month.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Jan 18, 2010, 03:56 PM
we got 62 sunday.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Jan 18, 2010, 04:43 PM
we got 62 sunday.


what part of the lake were ya fishing? tryin to find a place for my permie
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: YellowSlayer on Jan 18, 2010, 06:29 PM
Has anybody been to Silver lake, elm lake, or rice lake lately.  Wanna try to find some perch fairly close to home.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Walleye Baiter on Jan 18, 2010, 07:25 PM
Is going out tomarrow to see what I can flop out on the ice. It has been slow where i am at. ??? No idea where to go. Dont sound like they are biting anywhere so i guese I will have to pull the portable out and find the honey hole.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Jan 18, 2010, 07:26 PM
silver is a hit and miss.  if you fish for pike you will have fun.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Walleye Baiter on Jan 18, 2010, 07:27 PM
Lets make a trip up to spirit and see what happens.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Walleye Baiter on Jan 18, 2010, 07:30 PM
I think that you are un American if you think a walleye tase better that a yellow. A perch may come close but a walleye does not compare. But like u said we all have our own tase buds.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: glowboy on Jan 18, 2010, 07:36 PM
yellows are like eating potato chips just can't eat one there that good
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Jan 19, 2010, 09:24 AM
roll them yellows in your favorite fish batter then dip that in egg and then roll them in potato flakes and fry them until the flakes are golden brown. let me know how you like them.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: YellowSlayer on Jan 19, 2010, 06:13 PM
silver is a hit and miss.  if you fish for pike you will have fun.
Thanks eye r they fishing by the jetty or the north side.  What r the northerns biting on?  Thanks for the info.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: YellowSlayer on Jan 19, 2010, 06:18 PM
Lets make a trip up to spirit and see what happens.

Ok walleye baiter when you wanna go r u pulln the permie of this weekend?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: huntaholic on Jan 19, 2010, 06:57 PM
Has anybody been to Silver lake, elm lake, or rice lake lately.  Wanna try to find some perch fairly close to home.
Silver has all the baby perch you want right now. Nothing on rice.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bobracing32 on Jan 19, 2010, 07:03 PM
I caught a 88 1/2 pound tiger fish in the middle of the little lake yesterday...       on wii fishing that is! Ive been out for the past few weeks the best thing to do is keep moving around to find the fish.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Jan 20, 2010, 01:43 AM
lol~ Dead sea boys
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: original_iceman on Jan 20, 2010, 10:18 AM
lol~ Dead sea boys

LOL... yeah no real huge surprise there guys!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Arctic Warrior on Jan 20, 2010, 10:41 AM
Has anybody been to Silver lake, elm lake, or rice lake lately.  Wanna try to find some perch fairly close to home.

I've gone to Elm a couple of times with friends.  The first time we caught some nice perch and many small ones.  Second visit the fishing was slow except for someone's dog that was wanting to bite.  Stopped at Morse that day too and had no bites or fish on the flashers.  Access on Morse was poor, the road has not been plowed for a long time.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Walleye Baiter on Jan 20, 2010, 12:43 PM
Well I do an my family does to. So I dont know where u are coming from with the whole who acturally likes catching yellows it is something to do and it is fun at the same time. There are plenty of yellows out there you just have to find the right spot! 8)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: glowboy on Jan 20, 2010, 07:38 PM
roll them yellows in your favorite fish batter then dip that in egg and then roll them in potato flakes and fry them until the flakes are golden brown. let me know how you like them.
thanks for tip i will let you know  thanks
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Jan 20, 2010, 11:43 PM
Well I do an my family does to. So I dont know where u are coming from with the whole who acturally likes catching yellows it is something to do and it is fun at the same time. There are plenty of yellows out there you just have to find the right spot! 8)

HE KNOWS ALL THE RIGHT SPOTS :whistle: :whistle:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ice pig 121 on Jan 21, 2010, 03:28 PM
How is the ice since the rain, I have my permy out and haven't made it since Monday, is the lake still able to be driven on by truck. And about the fishing, those yellows are fun little buggers to catch even if it has been slow (I'm probably in the wrong spot anyways!) have caught quite a few cigars also but nothing worth keeping.  Haven't had much luck during the day, just before dark seems to be the golden hour! Thanks and tight lines!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Walleye Baiter on Jan 21, 2010, 07:49 PM
If that was the case i wouldnt of caught just three tonight then right. So aparently i do not know all of the good spots like i said it is weather you find the right hole
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bobracing32 on Jan 22, 2010, 05:43 PM
last two nights out i havent even seen a fish.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Jan 22, 2010, 09:31 PM
Drilled 30 to 40 holes tonight. Saw maybe 6 fish out of all those holes, they were just lookers.  :'( :'( :'( :'( :'(
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishings4me on Jan 26, 2010, 09:23 PM
On Clear Lake are most of the guys moving to the big lake or are there still a lot of people on little lake?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bobracing32 on Jan 26, 2010, 10:08 PM
most people gave up. Its very hard to find the fish. Some days its 20 others only 2. before the "dredge" the island and farmers were the hot spots. Farmers isnt producing a whole lot, and as far as the island not a permie out there. I remember on average 20-30 permies there every year. Ive seen very few people trying it, it always worked in the past who says it wont this year?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: iowaperch on Jan 28, 2010, 09:35 AM
been pretty quiet on here lately!!!Anything getting caught out there yellows,walleyes,or thieves ???
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Jan 28, 2010, 09:41 AM
none of the above....
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Jan 28, 2010, 11:39 AM
none of the above....

I'm still catching some yellows and a few perch. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: iowaperch on Jan 28, 2010, 12:29 PM
may i ask where the perch are biting i dont need exact locations just a general area as you can tell by my name i love catching perch. like what depths little lake or what. are they pretty good sized.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishings4me on Jan 28, 2010, 09:58 PM
Over the holidays we caught a few perch too on little lake. We didn't think there were any perch left in there. No size to it, but it was still good sign.... I wouldn't mind catching perch there
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 29, 2010, 12:18 PM
Good ole midwinter blues over there.  Nothing to catch but bottle bass.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coketeck on Jan 31, 2010, 09:38 AM
Wow small lake is the dead sea. Had to try main lake at least found some of the larger yellows.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Jan 31, 2010, 01:00 PM
I'm thinking this time of year getting into february the crappies should be biting in that deep water ne of the island.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Feb 01, 2010, 08:42 AM
First time on the lake in a week. What a change yellows were very active chasing thejigging spoons managed to ice 42 between 4 and 6 last night,out on the big lake. Talked to one friend that spent the afternoon in the LL 0 fish. I guess we made the right choice this time.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Feb 01, 2010, 08:31 PM
what part of the lake were you in? i have been usin minnows but im only catching 4-8 each night....just want a little tip.
 :tipup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 02, 2010, 12:09 PM
I havent caught a yellow for days.  Im pulling all eyes through my holes.  Seen some keeper sized lines but couldnt get them to bite. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Feb 02, 2010, 10:55 PM
thats all i am catching is yellows..i wana pull some eyes thru the hole.....but im not catchin more then 8 yellows a night or less. i have heard guys catchin 40 to 80 yellows a night. i would love to kno how they are doin that....and where
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Feb 04, 2010, 09:12 AM
To catch the higher # of yellows you need to drill 20 to 40 holes. If you do not see fish in 2 or 3 minutes move on, constantly hole jumping. The fish are roaming not staying for more than 5 minutes. After jumping around you can narrow down the hot holes and focus on 2 or 3. Key is to run and gun with spoons and minnow heads. hope this ups your fish #s.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bull_Gill_Mike on Feb 04, 2010, 11:13 AM
Can you get around the lake fairly easy with an atv or 4x4 truck?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Feb 04, 2010, 07:45 PM
alright thanks Luckydog35. im tryin to find a hotspot for my permie.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: glowboy on Feb 04, 2010, 08:16 PM
i thought maybe a little pray might make the fish bite    o fishing god ofishing god please hear our prays,we'll take some walleyes, crappies, bluegills, and yellows too in those buckets there, we'll catch them throught out the day, but come nite time the eyes come out to play, o fishing god you are true and dear just bring some action to the holes amen
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: russjess on Feb 05, 2010, 01:49 PM
thats all i am catching is yellows..i wana pull some eyes thru the hole.....but im not catchin more then 8 yellows a night or less. i have heard guys catchin 40 to 80 yellows a night. i would love to kno how they are doin that....and where
where would you happen to be catchin yellows at i mean like the big lake little lake the island anything would help at this point
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Feb 05, 2010, 02:03 PM
i am by dodges point. i am not to familiar with clear lake...i have my permie out there and just tryin to find a hotspot.
 :tipup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: russjess on Feb 05, 2010, 02:17 PM
i am by dodges point. i am not to familiar with clear lake...i have my permie out there and just tryin to find a hotspot.
 :tipup:
hows dodges point for fishing
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Feb 05, 2010, 03:17 PM
its alright. usually catching up to about 8 yellows a night then some nights only a few....
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Feb 05, 2010, 10:45 PM
2 of us managed 43 yellows tonite. they continue to chew buckshots and heads. time to get out and get your share everybody. ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Feb 05, 2010, 11:03 PM
where are you guys fishin? you dont have to say exactly where just a idea...big lake or little lake?
:tipup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Feb 06, 2010, 12:43 AM
2 of us managed 43 yellows tonite. they continue to chew buckshots and heads. time to get out and get your share everybody. ;D ;D ;D


3 people 3 poles 40 fish for us.  I love to catch them things.  Fished 3:30pm-7pm  Buckshots and minnows.   ;D ;D;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Feb 06, 2010, 07:41 AM
If you want the exact GPS cord.. Find the wind surfer that skied over and saw my fish on the ice( my mistake all going in a bucket from now on). He pulled out a handheld and marked it >:( >:( >:(. I don't mind helping people out a little, but it is fishing you need to go out and do some looking.

I am on the big lake, fishing all by myself......... well I was :'( :'( :'(

 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Feb 06, 2010, 10:10 AM
i dont want the exact cord. just want a idea of where your at..i am 17 years old just tryin to figure out the lake
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 06, 2010, 02:09 PM
Tell them spot stealers to go fly a kite.  Wait a minute. ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Feb 06, 2010, 08:14 PM
went out tonite and got 30 yellows!! not as aggressive of fish tonite drilled 40 holes and son managed to catch 18 of the 30! I do better when he doesn't go he is a stud fisherman!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 07, 2010, 11:54 AM
The youngsters or the first time ice anglers always manage to outfish even the most seasoned of anglers. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coketeck on Feb 07, 2010, 12:02 PM
This weather that is on the way turned on the bite this AM. Stopped at 25 nice yellows and one keeper. Does help to stay away from crowd. Hey luckydog I told your kite friend he might want to stay away from the big 10 inch holes been drillin just might get wet.  LOL
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ice pig 121 on Feb 07, 2010, 03:51 PM
Does anyone know if the DNR is going to extend the date so we can keep our houses out longer, Feburary 20th seems like it may be a bit early this year!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 07, 2010, 07:14 PM
We need to get something going where we can petition the dnr into spilitting the removal date into 2 zones like minnsota.  Feb 20th below highway 20 or 30  and maybe March 1st or 7th above.  Most every year it gets like this.  More than enough ice and not enough "legal" time.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ice pig 121 on Feb 07, 2010, 08:43 PM
We need to get something going where we can petition the dnr into spilitting the removal date into 2 zones like minnsota.  Feb 20th below highway 20 or 30  and maybe March 1st or 7th above.  Most every year it gets like this.  More than enough ice and not enough "legal" time.


I agree 100% I'll put my name on the list for sure!  Unless something big happens in a hurry that will be good ice for quite some time!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Feb 07, 2010, 08:53 PM
i agree, the ice is not going any where for a long period of time...def. put my name on the list if ya start one
 :tipup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: russjess on Feb 08, 2010, 08:16 AM
where are the fish biting there big lake little lake night or morning anything that would help me out there would be nice thanks plan on going thursday
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Feb 08, 2010, 10:16 AM
i think its best at dusk... 4-8 on the big lake. i have never tried the  little lake..i have my permie on the big lake thats why i havent tried the little lake..all you can do is drill a lot of holes. yellows are not stayin put they are moving constantly.. hope this helps ya out a little
 :tipup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: labman35 on Feb 09, 2010, 10:02 PM
Is it going to be worth the 3 hour drive to come up the week or the feb 20? Or should i just stay home and fish down here. Any help would be great
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 10, 2010, 12:23 PM
Prolly gonna be a bit treacherous getting around on the lake beings we just got 10 inches of snow and 30mph winds.  Anyone gotta report?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Feb 10, 2010, 02:51 PM
Prolly gonna be a bit treacherous getting around on the lake beings we just got 10 inches of snow and 30mph winds.  Anyone gotta report?

spent two hours plowing a road so people can get out.  everybody should give a big thanks to dan at the local bait shop. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: whip2 on Feb 10, 2010, 03:45 PM
 ???Well IAEYE, which "Local" Bait shop would you be talking about?

Would like to make sure I go to the right place to buy the bait I would use to drive out on that road.

Thanks
whip2
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Feb 10, 2010, 03:50 PM
???Well IAEYE, which "Local" Bait shop would you be talking about?

Would like to make sure I go to the right place to buy the bait I would use to drive out on that road.

Thanks
whip2

That would be The Crazy Minnow in Clear Lake.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: whip2 on Feb 10, 2010, 03:58 PM
Thanks Blue

Kind of what I thought but wasn't sure because there are a couple of other bait providers.

I wiil make sure I stop in & buy some bait & ask where to head to so I can get on the ice.

whip2
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Feb 11, 2010, 07:18 AM
Thanks Blue

Kind of what I thought but wasn't sure because there are a couple of other bait providers.

I wiil make sure I stop in & buy some bait & ask where to head to so I can get on the ice.

whip2

Thanks everybody!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 11, 2010, 01:24 PM
How is it off the road once you get out on the lake a bit? Did the wind blow most of the snow off? Slush pockets?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Arctic Warrior on Feb 11, 2010, 02:16 PM
The plowed road is great, but everywhere else there is probably 6-12" of snow.  No slush from what I saw.  There were tracks from trucks off of the road, so if you have 4WD you should be ok to go off of the road.  I think the park folks moved a lot of snow off of the ramps and off of the ice by the shore too.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Icegypsy on Feb 13, 2010, 03:35 PM
Staying in Mason City overnight Monday for work and will take the sled with me planning to hit clear lake, how is the walleye bite? anyone having any luck? I've heard this lake is better known for yellows..never fished here.  Thanks.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishing nut on Feb 13, 2010, 03:43 PM
Staying in Mason City overnight Monday for work and will take the sled with me planning to hit clear lake, how is the walleye bite? anyone having any luck? I've heard this lake is better known for yellows..never fished here.  Thanks.
Go straight out from the ramp@ mcintosh angle towards the north shore, south of the dome house and house east of it. Set up in 20 - 22 fow. Crappies will come through @ 4-8 ft off the bottom.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 13, 2010, 10:15 PM
Just seen on the news that ice houses North or Highway 20 have an extra week on the ice.  Guess no petiton was needed after all.   ;)

Should be driving on the ice into march yet.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishing nut on Feb 13, 2010, 10:21 PM
Just seen on the news that ice houses North or Highway 20 have an extra week on the ice.  Guess no petiton was needed after all.   ;)

Should be driving on the ice into march yet.
keep catching !!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: eyecefisher on Feb 14, 2010, 12:09 PM
The plowed road is great, but everywhere else there is probably 6-12" of snow.  No slush from what I saw.  There were tracks from trucks off of the road, so if you have 4WD you should be ok to go off of the road.  I think the park folks moved a lot of snow off of the ramps and off of the ice by the shore too.


With 4x4 you can go about anywhere off the road. its about 15-18 inches of snow, no slush.  :tipup:  :o
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Icegypsy on Feb 14, 2010, 11:07 PM
Go straight out from the ramp@ mcintosh angle towards the north shore, south of the dome house and house east of it. Set up in 20 - 22 fow. Crappies will come through @ 4-8 ft off the bottom.

Thank You!  ;D

 

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Arctic Warrior on Feb 17, 2010, 11:03 AM
Does anyone know if the paths drifted in during the last snow?  Or are they still good?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 17, 2010, 12:19 PM
The road out is fine.  Offroad travel is fine for fullsizes just dont stop in one of them waist high drifts you may have a problem then.  Fishing is picking up!

Getting stuck is part of the fun anyways! ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Feb 17, 2010, 12:46 PM
Does anyone know if the paths drifted in during the last snow?  Or are they still good?

Still drifted in.  It will be ready tomorrow.  Fishing is slow on farmers.  The little lake is getting better.   I think you can get on the little lake with 4x4.   I drove out to my house on farmers today.  3/4 ton 4x4 and we made it but it was deep. :-\
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishing nut on Feb 17, 2010, 03:03 PM
Does anyone know if the paths drifted in during the last snow?  Or are they still good?
Went out on lake through Macintosh this morn. trail was still good. Fished from 5:30 till 10. Caught one crappie, lost 2 others at hole. Many hits but bitting alittle light today. If the ice keeps building going to have to get extension for auger.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 17, 2010, 08:16 PM
I heard Farmers is bad.  That always gets pretty tough though.  East end I cant imagine. ???
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishing nut on Feb 18, 2010, 07:00 AM
myself and 2 other guys fished billys reef 2 weeks ago. It was dead, saw very little on vex. and no bites
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Feb 18, 2010, 03:56 PM
went to spirit lake yesterday and put the smack down on some perch  ;D caught 70 and kept 54 nice perch it was pretty fun
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: russjess on Feb 18, 2010, 07:58 PM
heading to clear lake tom morning if you see a blue truck stop by on the little lake and say hi could use a fishing buddy too
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: eyecefisher on Feb 18, 2010, 10:24 PM
Im still lost on CL... i only catch 4 yellows at the most, buckshots and heads do nothing for me.. even hole jumping isnt cutting it.. Im on the big lake and want to finish the season with some good fishing... any tips??  :tipup: :o
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: russjess on Feb 18, 2010, 10:35 PM
Im still lost on CL... i only catch 4 yellows at the most, buckshots and heads do nothing for me.. even hole jumping isnt cutting it.. Im on the big lake and want to finish the season with some good fishing... any tips??  :tipup: :o
 
you going out tom
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bobracing32 on Feb 19, 2010, 08:34 AM
To all fisherman. I along with other plow paths on the lake, and we dont get paid or ask anything of it. But an out of towner had the ball to chew me out last night because i drove to close to his shack. Well when your two feet off the path people will drive by. Needless to say they were driving two cars. With over four feet of snow this year and your making it out in a car you should be nothing but thanking people with plows. It really upsets me when i do a good thing for all fisherman and they they abuse it. I guess what i am getting at is i move the snow and i can move it right back. So i hope those two guys with there cars brought shovels last night because i blocked there little path off from the main path. No one will talk to me like that for helping all fisherman, so this message just goes to show you we dont have to help everyone. Obviously if we have a plow we have a big 4x4 behind it and dont need a path. Just think about that next time guys!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Arctic Warrior on Feb 19, 2010, 11:02 AM
To all fisherman. I along with other plow paths on the lake, and we dont get paid or ask anything of it. But an out of towner had the ball to chew me out last night because i drove to close to his shack. Well when your two feet off the path people will drive by. Needless to say they were driving two cars. With over four feet of snow this year and your making it out in a car you should be nothing but thanking people with plows. It really upsets me when i do a good thing for all fisherman and they they abuse it. I guess what i am getting at is i move the snow and i can move it right back. So i hope those two guys with there cars brought shovels last night because i blocked there little path off from the main path. No one will talk to me like that for helping all fisherman, so this message just goes to show you we dont have to help everyone. Obviously if we have a plow we have a big 4x4 behind it and dont need a path. Just think about that next time guys!

I'd like to thank everyone who has been making paths on the lake!  Some people just think that they own everything.  I plowed a little bit out there so we would have an easier time getting our permie off when the time comes and I also helped plow so someone else could move their permie to a new spot.  A day or so later one of the paths I plowed had 10" holes in it from someone that had set up their shack right on the path!  I guess it is too much work for them to drag their stuff 5 feet away from the path.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 19, 2010, 02:43 PM
Should just let the access drift in about 5 foot so the out of towners cant make it out. Lots of people out there this year that think their shhhtuff dont stink.  Anyone who cuts a road out deserves a cold one from every fisherperson out there if not a 24pack.  Thanks guys for the hard work.  It takes time,fuel,and wear and tear on the vehicles to push a road.  They just dont appear magically.  Thanks once again.  ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: spazman on Feb 19, 2010, 05:33 PM
Kudos to the guys cleaning out paths!!  I can say for myself and all the guys I fish with THANKS
 PS
Hope those guys had to dig out with a spoon.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: russjess on Feb 19, 2010, 05:49 PM
went to spirit lake yesterday and put the smack down on some perch  ;D caught 70 and kept 54 nice perch it was pretty fun

hey there how are you i was just wondering if i could get some tips on where to go at spirit lake a buddy of mine and i are planning a trip there sunday any advice would help us out thank you
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: labman35 on Feb 20, 2010, 06:43 AM
Thinking about driven up this morning is it worth the trip or is it a wasted trip up. Please tell me what you think. I have never been there but the guys plowing the snow thank you hope to buy you a cold one if i come up.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: whitetail1001 on Feb 20, 2010, 12:56 PM
im pretty sure "out of towners"  bring alot of money to clear lake all year around so ist pretty ignorant to be pointing your finger at them/us.  I use to live there and i dont really remember to many years where there were plowed roads on the lake.  Maybe one path out to billys or the island so someone could move their house and everyone managed to get out there. If your gonna be nice and plow thanks!  everyone appreciates it, but dont do it and then complain someone drilled holes where you plowed.  they will freeze over and maybe they wanted to fish there before the road was plowed.  last time i checked it was a public lake and this site was for fishing info and not complaining. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bobracing32 on Feb 21, 2010, 08:29 AM
Sure you may bring alot of money. But to be honest with four feet of snow this year and your still making it out. Who cares about holes they will freeze in hours. I along with many other locals get mad when people abuse things. I dont care if people fish next to eachother but when i have to park away from my shack just to get to it. Its sad when you can talk to your neighbor without opening a window. Also last time i checked you can park in the middle of the blacktop. why would you on the middle of the ice road so to speak. get your butt 5 feet off the path and everything would be fine. just dont block it.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coketeck on Feb 21, 2010, 12:06 PM
 Well, back to fishing topics!  Hit the big lake yesterday for the afternoon bite. Left the lake with 20 nice yellows but no eyes. Use the rattle spoon with a minnow head and jump hole to hole till you find the one that has the biters! Hit the hole hard till they stop and start jumpin again! 10-12 FOW
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Feb 21, 2010, 12:08 PM
Coketec call me going to take kids out
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ice pig 121 on Feb 22, 2010, 12:12 PM
Should just let the access drift in about 5 foot so the out of towners cant make it out. Lots of people out there this year that think their shhhtuff dont stink.  Anyone who cuts a road out deserves a cold one from every fisherperson out there if not a 24pack.  Thanks guys for the hard work.  It takes time,fuel,and wear and tear on the vehicles to push a road.  They just dont appear magically.  Thanks once again.  ;D


Thank you guys very much for running the plows, i have a permie out on the the little lake and it's much appreciated!! i only have a two wheel drive so i rely alot on friends and family to be able to get some fishing in, or make the walk!!  Once again your services are much apprecitated, Thank You
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Feb 22, 2010, 08:19 PM

Thank you guys very much for running the plows, i have a permie out on the the little lake and it's much appreciated!! i only have a two wheel drive so i rely alot on friends and family to be able to get some fishing in, or make the walk!!  Once again your services are much apprecitated, Thank You

Thanks from Pauls Fishing Guide and Dan at the Crazy Minnow.  Its not easy!! 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: anderson_dc on Feb 23, 2010, 09:25 AM
(two cents)

While out of towners do bring in money to the community that doesnt give them the right to not observe proper ettiquette while on the ice.  If there is that much snow out there and only one path plowed dont fish in the path and dont park on it either, its common sense...  Man up, walk 10 feet and drill your hole.

For the guys plowing the paths keep up the good work!  You dont have to do it and it does cost you time and money to do so and as you can tell it is appreciated by many people.

I havent fished Clear Lake yet this year but i will probably fish it in the next weekend or two and i will thank you in advance for having a path plowed out onto the ice.  Thanks!  :tipup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: toothfish on Feb 23, 2010, 01:43 PM
Hi !  I'm an "outoftowner".
 I want to say THANKS to those who plowed roads on Clear Lake !
I stopped by this past Sunday and spent some time on the ice.

I did NOT set up on the roads. ->   Common sense says " Roads are for access , not fishing."
I did NOT leave any trash.       ->   Trashy people live trashy lives.
I did NOT take any fish.           ->  Fished during the worst time of the day.
I DID get a report from a local before driving on....   THANKS !

Please don't lump me into an unsportsmanlike group just because I'm an "outoftowner".
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: hndaugr on Feb 23, 2010, 08:15 PM
 :thumbsup: I'm with you .I go there to. I enjoy it, bite or no bite. We all support that lake. I thought the lake was for everyone. The way some people sound the DNR should sell ice rights.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coketeck on Feb 24, 2010, 05:13 PM
Thank you plow people, thank you out of towners, now is anybody catchin fish? Yellows are around still. Thinkin of heading to Billies or back to gillmores this weekend. Had some luck at gillmores couple weeks ago. Any body been over there?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bobracing32 on Feb 25, 2010, 12:58 PM
any word on another extension?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 25, 2010, 06:44 PM
Should be extened to the 20th.  We pulled ours off tonight.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bobracing32 on Feb 26, 2010, 08:23 AM
you catch anyfish where you were at? The last move you made?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Feb 26, 2010, 02:44 PM
worst year ever on cl
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Mar 04, 2010, 10:20 PM
Great day on the lake today.  1 perch and 25 nice yellows.  I put the perch back we all know that there isn't many left. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Mar 10, 2010, 10:01 AM
Go Go Yellows. This is great.  Lots of fish and no people. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: rook on Mar 11, 2010, 02:38 PM
hows the ice holden out. thinkin of tryn it sat.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Mar 11, 2010, 04:37 PM
The ice is good but you will have to walk out.    6-7" of bad ice and 20"plus of good ice.   Post a report when your done sat.  thanks.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: EyesMan on Mar 12, 2010, 06:37 PM
Anyone fishing and safe gettn out on the ice? If so where should a person try to catch some fish 1 last time for the kids to catch some ? Thinking of heading up in am if safe just alking out  ??? :icefish:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Mar 12, 2010, 08:44 PM
Ive talked to 2 guys and they have got 300 yellows in the last 3 days.  If your looking to catch some fish go out from the ramp and look for fresh holes.  Drill 30 holes and start looking you will find some fish. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: EyesMan on Mar 12, 2010, 09:01 PM
thats what we are lookin for thanks and possibly what ramp we thought about out by island?   :icefish: ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Mar 12, 2010, 10:19 PM
No  fish in the little lake.  MacIntosh
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Mar 14, 2010, 02:14 PM
went out in the little lake this morning for 3 hours caught 120 yellows
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bassfishnhunt on Mar 15, 2010, 07:14 AM
Nice catch!! Is there a lot of slop on top of the ice right now? My 10 year old is on spring break this week and thought about trying to catch some yellows. I have never ice fished for them before, any pointers?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Mr.Seaguar on Mar 15, 2010, 11:26 AM
BassfishnHunt, I catch them on blugill and perch stuff. Basically a size 12 gold jig and 3-4 maggots. They are just a bycatch when I am fishing for perch and blugills but they bite readily.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Mar 15, 2010, 01:41 PM
The conditions are very good out there right now, just a little water get on after that your good. I would not wait the shore lines will get tough in the next 2 days.

I took my 8 year old out this morning we had a ball 115 yellows(he had at least 50) before 9:30. Between the other 4 guys fishing around us and our catch the total was 270!!!!!! It was a great time with a lot of laughs and jawing back and forth between my son and the other fellows.

We are using panfish jigs (gold, pink, char) with maggots( 3or4) in 8-10ft of water. The bite is very good from 7 to 9am. If you are not making fish move around.

Taking the boys back out tuesday for 1 last shot before heading to Red Wing with the boat.

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Mar 16, 2010, 11:45 AM
Took a group of kids out this morning for 3 hrs. They caught another 186 yellows and 1 crappie. Having a fish fry at noon to finish off the ice season. :'( :'( :'(  Anyone trying to go out from now on should be taking lifejackets and throw cushions. BE SAFE!!!!!!!  the ice is honey combed..

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bassfishnhunt on Mar 16, 2010, 12:12 PM
Sounds like you had a blast. How much ice is left? I might try first thing in the morning by myself. Are you fishing the little lake, if you don't mind me asking?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Mar 16, 2010, 01:16 PM
Around 2 ft of soft ice. Morning should be alright. Little Lake 8 to10ft, small jigs and maggots.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bassfishnhunt on Mar 17, 2010, 08:25 PM
well I made it out around 7:30 and saw everyone catching them but me :-\ I only had wax worms and the fish would charge up to get the jig about 3 foot and then not bite, but the guy 8 foot away from me caught about 30 in an hour and I had 1 and I was using the exact same jig except he had maggots??????? who knows, that's ice fishing for ya, I am going to try one more time tomorrow in the morning, will posts my results.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Mar 17, 2010, 08:40 PM
well I made it out around 7:30 and saw everyone catching them but me :-\ I only had wax worms and the fish would charge up to get the jig about 3 foot and then not bite, but the guy 8 foot away from me caught about 30 in an hour and I had 1 and I was using the exact same jig except he had maggots??????? who knows, that's ice fishing for ya, I am going to try one more time tomorrow in the morning, will posts my results.

Good Luck!  Try cut bait if the waxy don't work.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bassfishnhunt on Mar 18, 2010, 12:07 PM
 Well I made it out this morning and did better with the cut bait and some jigging spoons. Thanks for the tips, I will have to see if there will be any ice left next week and try again if the cold front doesn't shut them off
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Mar 19, 2010, 04:54 PM
Last Day.  26 yellows, 1 perch and 6 carp.  BYE BYE ICE!!!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bassfishnhunt on Mar 22, 2010, 07:04 AM
 IAEYE, would a guy be able to still get out there this afternoon or tomorrow morning?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Mar 22, 2010, 08:14 PM
IAEYE, would a guy be able to still get out there this afternoon or tomorrow morning?

There was 6 people out tonight.  I think the fishing is still good.  Be careful.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Dec 01, 2010, 12:51 PM
What's the ice thickness on little lake? Anybody know?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 01, 2010, 07:25 PM
Walked out at the dock I would say 4 to 5 in.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Dec 01, 2010, 08:16 PM
Anybody ice fishing on clear lake?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 01, 2010, 09:24 PM
I don't think so.  By thursday or friday it should be good.  The geese have a spot open in the center so if go be careful. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Dec 01, 2010, 09:35 PM
im really gettin anxious to get out there and start drilling holes...and get a line in the water. Anybody over on the ventura side?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Dec 01, 2010, 09:59 PM
Theres 4-5 inches of ice and nobodys fishing?  I gotta get up there!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Dec 01, 2010, 10:00 PM
thats what im thinking! itd be good to get out there before everyone starts gettin out...i gotta find a good place for my permie
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coldfisherman on Dec 01, 2010, 10:06 PM
Hold your horses. Plenty of time left. The lake is still full of open water holes everywhere.
I wouldn't even think about walking out on the ice this week much less dragging an auger and gear out and punching a hole in this hymen.

Just my .02 and I'm a hundred feet from the lake here in my office.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Dec 02, 2010, 06:51 AM
That makes more sense as to why nobody is fishing.  I looked at the live camera and it looked like some open water out there.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 02, 2010, 07:10 PM
I found a good 4 inches on the little lake today.  2 other shacks out there.  Still a few small open areas you wanna keep an eye on.  Fishin was slower than hell.  Good to get back on the lake again though.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 02, 2010, 08:32 PM
The geese have been keeping it open in spots. Most of the little lake is 4 to 5 and if you can find some fish you will catch them.   Be safe. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coldfisherman on Dec 03, 2010, 05:38 AM
Officially Ice In,

http://www.globegazette.com/news/local/article_67492280-fe40-11df-9bfb-001cc4c002e0.html (http://www.globegazette.com/news/local/article_67492280-fe40-11df-9bfb-001cc4c002e0.html)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Dec 03, 2010, 06:11 AM
It's gonna be very dangerous out there for awhile. With several inches of new snow forecasted there will be thin spots where the geese and ducks kept it open so be careful.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 03, 2010, 02:56 PM
If that forecast is correct the winds will pickup to 20-30 and blow all that white stuff off there.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Dec 04, 2010, 07:48 PM
I went out on the lake for the 1st time this year there was a solid 6 inches. Did not see a fish until 4:45 then had a short 15 min bite, only managed to land 2 yellows out of a dozen hits. Not a real fast start but still great to be out!!! trying again in morning 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Dec 05, 2010, 05:49 AM
We lucked out and only got 1.4" of snow. With this cold snap it's gonna make ice now. Go fish.  :)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ScaleHusker on Dec 05, 2010, 06:21 AM
I'm in route with a couple buddies, one stop at the crazy minnow and we'll be poppin holes. First time out this year. I'll post the action later, tight lines fellas.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Dec 05, 2010, 10:45 AM
I drove by little lake this morning and counted 8 shacks out there. Use the McIntosh State Park entrance.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Dec 05, 2010, 11:00 AM
Out this morning for 3 hrs only managed 12 small walleyes and 1 perch. Fished in 9' to 12'. Several people out so lets here some reports.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ScaleHusker on Dec 05, 2010, 06:40 PM
Stayed out all day only managed some cigars and a perch. Partners were roughly the same with a couple yellows mixed in. Good ice 5-7 inches. The big lake should be well on its way to fishable by next weekend
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: walleyewinder23 on Dec 05, 2010, 06:46 PM
i might be headed up there for a day in a couple weeks, where would you guys recommend i go for yellows and perch? maybe walleye?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Dec 05, 2010, 08:50 PM
just depends on if the big lake freezes...i went out today for a few hours and only little cigar but was markin them on the electronics and was getting bites just never hooked em...should pick up a little more the ice was about 5-7 inches thick and saw about 10 other guys out too...i will be headed back out sometime soon...temps tomorrow will make some good thick ice on the lake...
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 06, 2010, 10:31 AM
Think imma test its sturdyness with the wheeler today. 8)
5-7 sounds about right.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Dec 06, 2010, 10:44 AM
Report back how ya do...good luck
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Dec 07, 2010, 08:31 AM
Report back how ya do...good luck

Ah Oh!  No report back yet. That can't be good.  :o  :'(                                ;)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: JCrawford on Dec 07, 2010, 01:46 PM
Guesing that means the bite is great... Or he fell in.  :(
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 07, 2010, 02:12 PM
Caught so many cigars I couldnt keep track of them.  One just shy of 14 definetly looking skinny poor lil dude looked like he hadnt ate since march. Plenty of ice over there for wheelers the least I found was 7 inches even in the channel area.  Didnt catch a single yellow though which is very very odd. ???

She was around 4 degrees when I left the lake .  Its getting about time to get the big house out there.  Should be driving out with pickups in a week or less.  Stay safe guys. :tipup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Dec 07, 2010, 03:02 PM
Caught so many cigars I couldnt keep track of them.  One just shy of 14 definetly looking skinny poor lil dude looked like he hadnt ate since march. Plenty of ice over there for wheelers the least I found was 7 inches even in the channel area.  Didnt catch a single yellow though which is very very odd. ???

She was around 4 degrees when I left the lake .  Its getting about time to get the big house out there.  Should be driving out with pickups in a week or less.  Stay safe guys. :tipup:

Thanks for the update.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 07, 2010, 10:15 PM
Anyone fished farmers beach yet? If so how much ice is over that way? I havent been over on that part to check the ice.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ice pig 121 on Dec 08, 2010, 09:13 AM
Anyone fished farmers beach yet? If so how much ice is over that way? I havent been over on that part to check the ice.


7-8 inches of good looking ice. 13in wally and two yellows.  Sure was nice getting out though!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 08, 2010, 09:45 AM
How deep were you fishing at farmers? if you dont mind me inquiring.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ice pig 121 on Dec 08, 2010, 10:03 AM
How deep were you fishing at farmers? if you dont mind me inquiring.

Not at all, I didn't run around much was in 11-13 FOW. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 08, 2010, 12:19 PM
Ice look good enough to bring out a wheeler and a 2000lb wheelhouse? ???
Or think I should wait another day?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: codewordcs1 on Dec 08, 2010, 06:15 PM
Anyone fished farmers beach yet? If so how much ice is over that way? I havent been over on that part to check the ice.

I was there yesterday morning till noon. Ice was around 7"-8" with an exception of some 4" in a few spots. Fishing was slow. tried 7-14 fow marked fish all day but they just didn't want what we were throwing at them. Did catch a few yellows and one dink walleye. There was a couple fellas putting a permanent out there.  :)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 08, 2010, 10:34 PM
Where was the 4 inches located at? North east or northwest of the ramp?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: codewordcs1 on Dec 08, 2010, 10:53 PM
Northwest. It was a patch which looked to be one of the last open water spots to freeze up. There's a ridge around it and it looks like a shady spot I think you'll see it.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Dec 09, 2010, 07:12 AM
No fish in this lake! Thanks to heavy heavy fishing pressure 2 and 3 years ago... maybe a few small yellows, but that is about it
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: onemore on Dec 09, 2010, 05:53 PM
Maybe it aint the fishermen but the YELLOWS
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 09, 2010, 06:27 PM
Hey at least its still one of the premier carp fisheries in North Iowa.  And oh so numerous snake Muskies.  Thank You Ia Dnr for putting them ravenous eat everything fish in there. I'll be sure to send you guys a christmas card ;)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 09, 2010, 10:41 PM
I don't get it.  I went out at 4:30 Started fishing at 4:45 and by 5 I had 10 Yellows and 2 13" Eye's. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: labman35 on Dec 10, 2010, 07:12 AM
where at farms beach, the island or little lake where the best place for a guy to go today ???????
 
                                        Thanks guy ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 12, 2010, 05:51 PM
Braved pure black ice roads to get over there and check it out.  We dodged a bullet boys and girls the lake is virtually free of all snow.  Checked Mcintosh ramp and Farmers Beach ramp both need minor clearing but looks like we should be driving out very soon. Tuesday or Wednesday for sure. :tipup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 12, 2010, 09:54 PM
84 Yellows on Friday in just a few hours.  Best fishing in a long time! 4 small eyes.  Most people say they are marking fish.  Well this lake is so full on 2" Yellows and 2" Perch its crazy.  Fish 4 to 7 FOW!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 12, 2010, 10:11 PM
What size u been averaging for yellows? Seems like theyre getting smaller every year.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 12, 2010, 10:17 PM
Most were 8 to 9 we had 5 or so that were around 10.  The smaller ones eat better anyways.  This fall we did really well on the big ones.  I hope we can drive Tuesday I need to get the wheel house out of the driveway.  I hate SNOW. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: slick ice on Dec 13, 2010, 08:57 PM
I'm going to be coming up to clear lake in 3 weeks or so. what is the best bait to use. my aunt and uncle live on the lake. I'm hoping to get my uncle hooked on ice fishing.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ed4 on Dec 14, 2010, 06:56 AM
getting ready to head up there this morning.  I think we are gonna try farmers beach area.  We will be the black shack with a white honda four wheeler with a plow on it!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 14, 2010, 04:38 PM
Drove out with my 4x4 truck  :o  a GOOD 13" in the little lake.  I went out about 150 yards.  Be careful and have fun this season.   
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishings4me on Dec 14, 2010, 09:35 PM
I hope the fishing improves as the winter goes on - I'd like to get a few yellows and a bonus walleye or two. The ice is really 13"? I guess if the wind took most of the snow off, then it's probably pretty decent.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 14, 2010, 10:18 PM
Yeah it looks great!!   8)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 15, 2010, 06:50 PM
Sweet! Are the fish still biting over there?  Farmers is a skunkfest I'm marking tons of fish but cannot get em to bite.  Have tried everything.  Think its time to move.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 15, 2010, 07:20 PM
How much ice on Farmers?  If you want to catch a lot of Yellows you need to drill a lot of holes.  I would stay 5 to 8 ft.  Farmers should have some fish ready to eat.  The fish your marking are the 2" Yellows I would guess.  We need to get a camera out there to see what they are.  There is a pile of keeper Walleyes in that lake its just finding some that are ready to chew.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 15, 2010, 07:33 PM
The ice was 11 at farmers yesterday. Think its getting about that time to drive out. Some pretty mean looking cracks by shore though.  And my truck is heavier than heck. :-\

Wish I still had my Dakota that was 2200lbs lighter.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 15, 2010, 07:40 PM
You drive a black dodge with a wheeler on back right.  any fish tonight.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 15, 2010, 07:43 PM
Yup thats my rig.  Caught 2 6inch yellows 10fow  Think its time to move over to the little lake.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tsmith17 on Dec 16, 2010, 03:18 AM
Are there ANY keeper Walleyes to be caught in this lake anymore? ???
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: original_iceman on Dec 16, 2010, 07:19 AM
They are in there, just very few!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 16, 2010, 07:27 AM
This lake is full of 13-15" Walleyes.  I caught a 16" in Oct. and it had 5 - 2" yellows and 2 2"-Perch in its belly.  These fish are not ready to eat with all that food in the lake. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ed4 on Dec 16, 2010, 03:26 PM
we went out Thursday morning and fished Farmers until around 1.  There were 3 perm. shacks out there. We drilled some holes out in that area and marked them all over.  We managed to only get 2 to bite all morning. The ice was cracking and popping like crazy! There was at least 8 inches everywhere we drilled...probaly more like 10 but didnt measure it exactly. So we bailed out and hit the interstate lake pond on the way home.

Debating whether or not to try Clear Lake tomorrow or go try brushy. Its about the same distance either place. Any suggestions? LOL  Been to skunked at little lake twice already this year and have gotten 2 yellows in our one try at Farmers.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ice pig 121 on Dec 16, 2010, 04:35 PM
Fished off Macintosh yesterday morning, same ol story marked tons of fish, got them to follow me up but only one taker, a cigar perch!  Permy is about done and itching to smell like fish but this isn't looking too good!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Dec 17, 2010, 05:31 AM
This lake is full of 13-15" Walleyes.  I caught a 16" in Oct. and it had 5 - 2" yellows and 2 2"-Perch in its belly.  These fish are not ready to eat with all that food in the lake. 

"Full of 13-15" Walleyes" :cookoo: Good luck catching all them keepers :roflmao:

Going to be another slow year for everyone... that is what happends when u fish out a lake
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: original_iceman on Dec 17, 2010, 07:34 AM
LOL, agree with you shantytown... 13" to 15" eyes in my mind is not keepers, especially when you can't keep anything under 14"!!!  Heck 14" eyes are a waste of time if your going to keep them, not much meat on them cigars, they need to get up to the 18" length - IMO.  Yep, the lake did get fished out a couple of years ago and fished out big time! Maybe in a couple years in might get back up to a somewhat decent lake, but then again it will more than likely get over fished again and back to what it is like now.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 17, 2010, 02:16 PM
Close it to all walleye fishing for 2 yrs.  Then put a slot on it or something.  Maybe introduce a forage base of some sorts of shrimp/scuds like they have up in Nd.  Just dredging a lake and calling it good really isnt the answer.  A structureless hole doesnt do to much.  Maybe sink some cribs out there. Theres crappies in the lake they would use them. So many things that could be done.

I agree the lake was fished out also.  They were on a bite where no skill was involved to catch them for a month.  Every end of the lake you could get your limit.  I will agree with SHANTYTOWN for once.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Dec 17, 2010, 09:16 PM
Its already been said by many people that a slot limit doesnt work.  Just look at Storm Lake, its put out good fish for several years in a row and theres no slot limit there,  oh...wait a minute....
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 17, 2010, 11:17 PM
I think everybody is in understanding that Clear Lake had a lot of fishing presser 3 years ago and 70% of the larger fish are gone.  Its those people eating 20" plus fish that killed this lake.  I was at the grade last spring and 2 guys had a 26 and a 28" They caught them on blade baits in 2.5 fow "snagging". >:(  Then they took them home for supper! 

Storm is the hottest lake in the state and I love the slot.   On any given day in the summer you can catch a 25 incher. 

Clear Lake has all kinds of new structure.  The N. shore in the big lake and even the north shore in the little lake have grown a lot of new vegetation. This is a good thing!  That is why the Gills and Perch numbers were way up in the fall netting. 

cribs sound good to me! ;D

If anybody would like to know whats in the lake stop at the local dnr station and they would be more then happy to show you some numbers of the spring netting / fall netting ect....   

Is anybody catching any Yellows yet?? 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: J. Rosonke on Dec 18, 2010, 04:08 AM
Quote
Clear Lake has all kinds of new structure.  The N. shore in the big lake and even the north shore in the little lake have grown a lot of new vegetation. This is a good thing!  That is why the Gills and Perch numbers were way up in the fall netting. 

Right, that's a very encouraging thing, clear lake full of little perch who thought that would ever happen!

They didn't do the dredge just to make a big hole, they did it because that silt was full of phosphorus. Between the dredge and the work in ventura marsh and in the watershed it's already made water clarity impacts as evidenced by the new veg. those scuds they have in SD eat vegitation and need fairly clean water. They exist in the lake (the shrimp/scuds) give them the right conditions and they'll flourish, don't and they won't.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 18, 2010, 07:36 AM
You got it Rosonke!  ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Dec 18, 2010, 11:17 AM
Fished off Macintosh yesterday morning, same ol story marked tons of fish, got them to follow me up but only one taker, a cigar perch!  Permy is about done and itching to smell like fish but this isn't looking too good!

My ole' man & I were jerking yellows from his boat that last warm weather snap (end of Oct. or early Nov. ?? - Can't remember). Anyway, funny but he caught one of the largest perch I have seen in a long time.  It rivaled the jumbo perch in Lake Winni back in the day.  By memory, I'd say it was 12" if not more.  I about crapped.  We were getting the cigar perch on occasion then he got that.  He also got one of the better bluegills I have seen in a while. It was a jumbo gill. One odd day on Clear. I don't recall if I've ever caught a bluegill in that lake. I didn't even know there were gills in that lake.  I don't suppose there are a lot of them.  Is it like the crappie that when you do get them they are decent size?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Dec 19, 2010, 12:43 AM
Devils Lake Freshwater Shrimp
By: dleier , Fishing Buddy
08/30/2010 1:20 PM
As a child growing up in northwestern North Dakota, seafood was a special treat, to the point that even fish sticks were considered a pretty rare dinner at home..

Thirty-five years ago “fresh” North Dakota seafood came frozen in a box and was usually deep fried. One of my fondest memories of dining out was the occasional trip to the bowling alley in Williston and eating “shrimpos.”

It seems that fish in some North Dakota waters have the same appetite for shrimp, though they are fortunate to have a ready supply every day instead of only on special occasions. Freshwater shrimp are a key part of the aquatic food chain wherever they exist, feeding both large and small fish to a point where they may not show an interest in angler offerings because they aren’t hungry.

North Dakota is home to three freshwater shrimp species, gammarus, hyalella and mysis. The latter is an introduced species stocked in Lake Sakakawea in the early 1970s to add to the forage base. This species never really took off, and if any remain in the reservoir they are not abundant.

While the gammarus in Devils Lake garner much of the freshwater shrimp attention in the state, the smaller hyalella are found in more waters. Both, for certain, are important links in the forage base in those fisheries in which they are found.

Out of all North Dakota waters, Devils Lake is best recognized as home to these half-inch, nearly translucent creatures also known as gammarus, scuds or sideswimmers, which describes the way they propel themselves through the water.

It’s well-known that perch, walleye and pike in Devils Lake are healthy, in fact, that’s probably an understatement. Some anglers may argue that the actual catching of fish on Devils Lake may not rival the health of the fishery, but perhaps that’s to be expected considering the abundance of shrimp and other natural food sources along with a high water volume

In fact, a case of “fish biting on bare hooks” is often a sign of an unhealthy fishery, with hungry fish because of a lack of naturally occurring forage. Think of a trout pond at a sportshow and you’ll better understand the comparison.

Fisheries biologists monitoring Devils Lake game fish say the scud population is high on the list of reasons why the fish of Devils Lake are so healthy. Yellow perch, walleye and other species have little trouble finding and filling their stomachs with freshwater shrimp. While this hearty forage base is competition for the best angler, at the same time the long term viability of the fishery would be difficult to sustain without it.

But what do the shrimp need to survive? Freshwater shrimp are known to feed on all kinds of things. Often these tiny creatures browse on microscopic plants, animals, algae and other organic debris. Shrimp are at the front of the food chain. If a fish dies, freshwater shrimp are right there to turn the decaying flesh into energy that other fish will consume.

The recipe to create and maintain a healthy fishery is intriguing even to a biologist. Every facet is important.

So the next time you hear an angler at a fish cleaning station discussing a belly full of shrimp, it just might be the fish… and not the angler.

Leier is a biologist with the Game and Fish Department. He can be reached by email:  [email protected]

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Dec 19, 2010, 07:18 AM

     

Is anybody catching any Yellows yet?? 


IAEYE,
give me a call i'll show you how to catch them yellows!!

Had lookers most of the day just like everybody else. then found a school of active fish at 4:00 by 4:40 we had 74 yellows on the ice!!!!!!
Sure made up for the prior 7 hours I was out there.

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 19, 2010, 07:55 AM
Well LuckyDog sometimes you just get lucky!!! :P
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jagerdog on Dec 19, 2010, 10:26 AM
Did good on yellows last night on my first trip out this year.  Vex went dead after 20 minutes so I had to old school finesse 'em.  Caught almost all of them jigging with plastics.  Only got 2 on a dead stick.  I think it will be another great year early on the yellows, walleyes not so much.  I would agree with those posting on closing walleyes for 1 or 2 years.  I doubt the slot would work though.  The lake has way too many people pulling hardbaits and catching dozens of short fish.  The lake is littered with dead short ones after the weekends in the summer.  I don't know the solution, but I don't think the slot will work becuase the fish grow so slowly.  More forage would work, and the shrimp idea is a pretty good one.  Anyway, I figure on eating lots of yellows this winter and don't plan to keep any walleyes, even if I catch keepers.  It seems a little too sinful even for me....
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jagerdog on Dec 19, 2010, 08:24 PM
Pretty slow tonight.  I got a batch of short walleyes, some were 6" or smaller.  No yellows!  Don't think I've ever fished Clear Lake and not caught a yellow.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Dec 20, 2010, 06:56 AM
Im gonna follow them around next time I come up.  I cant believe they are the only ones catching fish!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: dynomax27 on Dec 20, 2010, 07:43 PM
Caught 4 yellows this past weekend.  Marked a few fish but nothing really hitting.

If anyone finds a golds gym duffel bag by Machintosh let me know.  It must have blown off my sled as I was heading out to the lake.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 20, 2010, 08:57 PM
It was a slow bite today. 8am to 5pm and we caught 60 Yellows No Eyes.  We marked fish all day but just couldn't get them to go.  The 60 fish we did catch all came in a hour and a half.    Spikes
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Dec 20, 2010, 10:37 PM
Not the best at posting pictures either :-\ Just would like some proof that we are not as good as ice fisherman as you :P B/c I don't believe it ;D

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SpoonieLuv on Dec 21, 2010, 12:07 PM
Anyboday who doesn't think slot limits work take a look north of our border. I have personally fished lakes where slot limits have been in place for 10-15-20 years depending on the lake. The fishing is far better then it was before the slot limits. The guys that don't support slot limits, season dates, etc are usually the same ones you see fillet a 26" walleye, **censored** do you think is going to happen when you take the breeding stock out of a body of water.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 21, 2010, 07:15 PM
Has anybody been to Rice Lake?  I went up today and only marked a few fish.  I had one on but it got off by the hole.  I think it was a tiny crappie. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Dec 21, 2010, 07:21 PM
Anyboday who doesn't think slot limits work take a look north of our border. I have personally fished lakes where slot limits have been in place for 10-15-20 years depending on the lake. The fishing is far better then it was before the slot limits. The guys that don't support slot limits, season dates, etc are usually the same ones you see fillet a 26" walleye, **censored** do you think is going to happen when you take the breeding stock out of a body of water.

 :tipup: :tipup: Thank you! All the other people who don't believe in this can fish other lakes
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 21, 2010, 08:30 PM
Im always willing to help people out for no charge.  I've been fishing Clear Lake for 25 Years so if anybody wants a few tips just ask.  I won't give you my gps but I could help get you on some fish.  My guest don't just come fish with me for a location they come to enjoy a day on the water and learn the lake.  I also spend the day teaching my guest ice fishing technique's. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Dec 21, 2010, 11:11 PM
Don't believe you or IAEYE without any pictures. Lets see them...

Shantytown,

If you read my post correctly, I told you where to see the pics. Just going to the website to view pictures does automatically withdraw $175 from your account!!!!!!

I don't give false reports, my first two posts of the season on page 46, were not steller catches. I let people know the real deal. Their are several people that follow my reports, the ones that matter know my catches are truthfull.

I too share info freely and will help fellow fishermen those who have met me on the lake would agree. Sometimes this turns out to bite me right in the backside :o

Example: Saturday while we were icing the (74 yellows) 2 other fishermen ask if they could move in with us, I welcomed them. Sunday same fishermen pull in with permie and planted it right on top of the group I was with. I know the lake is public argument will be coming after I post ,but this is very ballzy after I tried to help them the night before. Buddy is right I'm too nice this happens every year.

I will be out Weds. looking for new fish.

Has anybody noticed not many reports coming from farmers area? :-\ Might be checking  it out tomm.
 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 22, 2010, 06:07 AM
The DNR does encourage everybody to keep the Yellows.  If not they will become over populated.  ???  I don't think a couple of you understand what a business is.  Guiding is my full time job and if you don't like it that's OK.  Most do! ;D 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Dec 22, 2010, 08:09 AM






  there needs to be a slot limit on yellows ???  ???  ???

DID YOU JUST SAY THAT!!!! Are you kidding me?


 Alot of the people that hire guides are wanting to fish period. They either don't know how or don't have time in their busy lives to experince what you and I enjoy. These people maybe get to fish a couple times a year  :'( and I want them to have a great time.

I do not hog fish, they are never wasted. Most fish are released ( all walleyes over 18" in my boat), yellows are kept sometimes I have several elderly people and few others that enjoy fresh fish once in a while. This is unlike the person that left 4 yellows on the ice the other day in the little lake, guess it wasn't enough for a meal  >:(.

I never really said that I was mad. I just will move on and find a new spot, always do.

I love this lake been fishing it for 30 yrs. The damage to fish populations (walleyes) came from those fellows who double dip >:(  >:( taking multiple limits in a day and short fish i.e. the couple I watch keep 2 short walleyes at farmers last fall. I wasn't able to stay around till the DNR showed up I do hope they caught them. YES, I called in on them.

About sick of this. If you boys would like to meet sometime we could hash it out over a couple of beers. Maybe we could solve some of the worlds big problems. Good Luck fishing.

I will continue to post fish catches you can choose to believe them or not. I'm good either way.



Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ScaleHusker on Dec 22, 2010, 08:27 AM
Its gonna take alot more than 74 yellows to make a dent in the population in that lake. A slot limit for them would just throw fuel on the fire man. I dont get why these guys are being ridiculed. The way i interpret it is that they fish with several anglers and combine the total catch.
Sounds like alot of cigars and sub 14inch Eyes are in the Lake, now would be a good time to put a slot on them. More or less its a revolving door, it all comes back around. But a slot would possibly stabilize a solid walleye bite after a few short years. Most would take One keeper Eye to 20 yellows anyday I'd venture to say
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SpoonieLuv on Dec 22, 2010, 10:00 AM
Right on ScaleHusker, a slot on the 'eyes would do wonders for this lake. On some of the lakes I fish with slot limits somedays its hard to catch a fish under 18" to keep for supper. ;D I'll eat HOTDOGS if I can catch a bunch of 'eyes over 20". Thats a no brainer in my book.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 22, 2010, 12:11 PM
Wowzers heated discussion in here :o

Think I'll stay out of it and go do some fishing
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Chickenfarmer on Dec 22, 2010, 12:55 PM
I moved here from IGL area 2 months ago. I am learning more and more about clear lake and the people every day. I am an avid fisherman, favoring Eyes, never have caught aYellow , cant say I have ever seen one. Everything I have ever heard about CL is bad, that the fishing is terrible. I am anxious to find out on my own.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Dec 22, 2010, 05:38 PM
Caught 109 yellows today. same spot same way thanks.......
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: big Mike on Dec 22, 2010, 05:48 PM
Clear Lake is down but not as bad as others say.  two years ago I caught 10 walleye over 28" in one week with numerous other 2-5 lb fish, of them only one fish was kept by the way.   This was all produced in a lake with no slot limit.  Here is what happened, the inlet at the grade ran continously for two years due to the dredging project all summer long.  Normally it quits flowing in about early to mid June.  This left big walleyes concentrated in a small area, instead of spread throughout the lake for two years straight and very succeptable to overharvest which is what happened.  Regardless of limits, guys were taking home multiple 27-30" fish a day, why the DNR didn't watch it closer I don't know, but my point is that was a temperary problem.  Now that the dredging is over, fish in the upcoming years will spread out and not be up at the grade for every tom, dick, and harry to catch with easy.  The fishing will improve and you will again have those big fish just like before but it's going to take some time, they won't grow overnight.  So, enjoy the other great fishing the lake supports right now, the yellow bass, catfish, and muskie numbers are all very healthy.  If you aren't having success with these, you aren't doing something right.  by the way, go easy on the guides.  I guided part time for about 5 years, it's hard work and you don't make a lot of money.  I admire the guys like Kevan Paul, the guy is pursuing a dream and helping people have fun in the process.  He isn't forcing anyone to pay him and look at his testimonials, they are happy with what they get for their cash.  Keep up the good work Kevan!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: FISH-MITS on Dec 22, 2010, 06:50 PM
What? People are really getting worked up over a scurvy yellow bass population? To funny! Things are invasive bottom line. Eat em' as fast as you can catch em' and do everyone a favor.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 22, 2010, 07:14 PM
Clear Lake is down but not as bad as others say.  two years ago I caught 10 walleye over 28" in one week with numerous other 2-5 lb fish, of them only one fish was kept by the way.   This was all produced in a lake with no slot limit.  Here is what happened, the inlet at the grade ran continously for two years due to the dredging project all summer long.  Normally it quits flowing in about early to mid June.  This left big walleyes concentrated in a small area, instead of spread throughout the lake for two years straight and very succeptable to overharvest which is what happened.  Regardless of limits, guys were taking home multiple 27-30" fish a day, why the DNR didn't watch it closer I don't know, but my point is that was a temperary problem.  Now that the dredging is over, fish in the upcoming years will spread out and not be up at the grade for every tom, dick, and harry to catch with easy.  The fishing will improve and you will again have those big fish just like before but it's going to take some time, they won't grow overnight.  So, enjoy the other great fishing the lake supports right now, the yellow bass, catfish, and muskie numbers are all very healthy.  If you aren't having success with these, you aren't doing something right.  by the way, go easy on the guides.  I guided part time for about 5 years, it's hard work and you don't make a lot of money.  I admire the guys like Kevan Paul, the guy is pursuing a dream and helping people have fun in the process.  He isn't forcing anyone to pay him and look at his testimonials, they are happy with what they get for their cash.  Keep up the good work Kevan!




THANK YOU MIKE!!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Dec 22, 2010, 08:19 PM
Big Mike is right about all them big eyes at the grade. I saw some monster walleye heads laying in the weeds just west of the grade in that gravel parking lot after they filleted them out.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ScaleHusker on Dec 22, 2010, 11:09 PM
yeah i wasnt trying to ruffle anyones feathers. To each his own. Things can get mixed up. Dont get me wrong Yellows are very fun to catch, but my buddys and i make the drive up there for the walleyes. So lets get back to what guys are catchin on the ice Aye? Yellows, Gills, crappie, Eyes, perch, Hell even CARP LOL. anything.

Nail Em'
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: slammin slabs on Dec 23, 2010, 07:39 AM
headed that way today ganna hit the around noon maybe a little later any good spots a guy could try for some yellows or maybe a eye. caught 3 yellows my whole life and all were at clear lake i only get to fish there a couple times a year. any info greatly appreciated and not real familiar with the lake but i have gps and all the goodies just lookin for a good time and a new friend to bs with ill be in the team wild otter and will be off by myself more than likely thanks 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Dec 23, 2010, 08:38 AM
Clear Lake is down but not as bad as others say.  two years ago I caught 10 walleye over 28" in one week with numerous other 2-5 lb fish, of them only one fish was kept by the way.   This was all produced in a lake with no slot limit.  Here is what happened, the inlet at the grade ran continously for two years due to the dredging project all summer long.  Normally it quits flowing in about early to mid June.  This left big walleyes concentrated in a small area, instead of spread throughout the lake for two years straight and very succeptable to overharvest which is what happened.  Regardless of limits, guys were taking home multiple 27-30" fish a day, why the DNR didn't watch it closer I don't know, but my point is that was a temperary problem.  Now that the dredging is over, fish in the upcoming years will spread out and not be up at the grade for every tom, dick, and harry to catch with easy.  The fishing will improve and you will again have those big fish just like before but it's going to take some time, they won't grow overnight.  So, enjoy the other great fishing the lake supports right now, the yellow bass, catfish, and muskie numbers are all very healthy.  If you aren't having success with these, you aren't doing something right.  by the way, go easy on the guides.  I guided part time for about 5 years, it's hard work and you don't make a lot of money.  I admire the guys like Kevan Paul, the guy is pursuing a dream and helping people have fun in the process.  He isn't forcing anyone to pay him and look at his testimonials, they are happy with what they get for their cash.  Keep up the good work Kevan!


I'm OK with the guide service as well even though I have never used one.  Some people want to learn how to fish or don't have all the equipment to have an enjoyable experience when just want to get out on a rare occasion & catch some fish.

But, I'm not sure it's too kosher to use a public forum for advertising for one's business.  That's the first thing I thougt of when I was directed to his guide service site. For some reason, it just puts a bad taste in my mouth but he does provide a service for some. --Melrose
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Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: southfork on Dec 23, 2010, 09:06 AM
Does there seem to be a best time of the day that the yellows bite best?  Have had my best luck using swedish pimples and waxworms or minnows at dusk.  Also just a split shot, a bare hook and a minnow on the bottom.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 23, 2010, 12:16 PM
Theyre biting from 3:45-4:45 most nights.  You can pickup a few during the day though.  But theyre pretty tight lipped.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Dec 23, 2010, 07:53 PM
Nice to meet you tonight crappiebuster. I like what you did with the floor in your shack, never thought of rino coating? if that is what it was.

I did not direct people to the web site to see pics, as a screem just telling the people ?ing me where to see the proof.

Don't know how to post pics on here and don't wish to waste fishing time learning to doing so.

did catch yellows today fishing was good best bite 1-3 pm.

tip: use bluegill techniques to get more bites.

 good luck out there.

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 23, 2010, 08:43 PM
Yup a buddy thought of that and it just so happened we had some laying around.  It has worked well.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: slammin slabs on Dec 24, 2010, 12:16 AM
was at clear lake today on big lake over by church fished 8fow and nothing went to 5 fow and caught 1 yellow and marked more i just got there to late fished from 3 to 5 sound like i missed the bite just my luck maybe next time bite seemed tough had several come check me out but no takers  :( :(
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 24, 2010, 10:03 AM
Friggin snow!!! Were getting dumped on right now. No wind to blow it off the lake either. It could be slushfest 2010 out there boys.  They said by the time this is said and done 10-12 inches will be on the ground. Hopefully the plow man opens up Farmers again.

Merry Christmas by the way :-\
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Northlander on Dec 25, 2010, 10:17 AM
Merry Christmas everyone! Is anyone going to the Brainerd Jaycees $150,000 Ice Fishing Extravaganza? I'm getting geared up and ready to head out on January 22nd.

On another note I haven't been out on the Lake this year, I'm getting the itch to head out....Any action out there?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 25, 2010, 11:50 AM
There is a great number of Yellows up shallow fish 4 to 6 fow.  spikes!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: corey2145 on Dec 25, 2010, 06:30 PM
is there any open roads out there to go fishing tomorrow? on farmers or little lake? ???
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 25, 2010, 07:12 PM
I dont know about the road situation there was one going out from Farmers before the 10inches of snow we got.  Bring a shovel and keep her punched if you have a good 4x4.  Dont hit one of them dreaded slush pockets though. ;D
Good Luck
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Northlander on Dec 26, 2010, 11:34 AM
I talked to the crazy minnow guy yesterday and he said that he plowed a path yesterday on Macintosh and Farmers but we have got snow since then, but he thinks only one person has got stuck since then and he did not have aggressive tires on his vehicle. :)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CL_UCS on Dec 26, 2010, 10:30 PM
What were the fish biting tonight? Had wax worms and a some pan fish worms on the hooks earlier this evening. The fish were everywhere on the vexilar around 4 but only had one bite. I was in Farmer's at about 8-9ft of water.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jagerdog on Dec 27, 2010, 03:36 PM
I caught 20 yellows in 9 FOW last night on various Gulp versions.  I lost at least that many on the hole and on the way up.  These were really light biters for some reason.  I never really found a pattern that worked consistently and swithced colors and baits often.  Had a few short walleyes as well.  Got one on a Chubby Darter when things got slow.  Marked fish by the thousands.  Ate a batch from earlier in the week and they were awesome.  Lots of slush to deal with.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Dec 27, 2010, 11:17 PM
I caught 20 yellows in 9 FOW last night on various Gulp versions.  I lost at least that many on the hole and on the way up.  These were really light biters for some reason.  I never really found a pattern that worked consistently and swithced colors and baits often.  Had a few short walleyes as well.  Got one on a Chubby Darter when things got slow.  Marked fish by the thousands.  Ate a batch from earlier in the week and they were awesome.  Lots of slush to deal with.

How much snow is on the ice or slush?  Is it drivable or what does a guy need?  Will ATV get stuck?  Just wondering about the lake conditions. Thanks.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: iowaperch on Dec 28, 2010, 09:12 AM
was on clear lake yesterday from 2-5:30 what a mess that lake is with all the slush on top(it was my first time out) what can we hope for to make that go away. will the rain they are calling for this week help melt the snow and then make all that water on top ice again or not. but any ways we found fish. my vexilar was lit up like a christmas tree all day. we only ended up catching 4 keeper yellows 2 dink perch, and 2 dink yellows. are those fish i was marking all day more than likely the dinks i caught? it seemed like when i would catch a bigger yellow the vexilar would calm down only marking one or two fish compared to about 10-20 and it would hit alot harder than any thing else. i sure wish i would of had a camera yesterday. oh and i tried any where from 5 to 10 fow marked all kinds of fish in every hole i went to.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Dec 28, 2010, 10:25 AM
was on clear lake yesterday from 2-5:30 what a mess that lake is with all the slush on top(it was my first time out) what can we hope for to make that go away. will the rain they are calling for this week help melt the snow and then make all that water on top ice again or not. but any ways we found fish. my vexilar was lit up like a christmas tree all day. we only ended up catching 4 keeper yellows 2 dink perch, and 2 dink yellows. are those fish i was marking all day more than likely the dinks i caught? it seemed like when i would catch a bigger yellow the vexilar would calm down only marking one or two fish compared to about 10-20 and it would hit alot harder than any thing else. i sure wish i would of had a camera yesterday. oh and i tried any where from 5 to 10 fow marked all kinds of fish in every hole i went to.

What I understand from posts above is that you may have been marking schools of dink perch.  I suppose when you got the nice yellows or they were in the area, the larger yellows or commotion may have scattered the small perch school & this could be why your Vex seemed to settle down at times.  Just a presumption.  I am definitely not an expert on Clear like many others on here. I don't get up there as much as I would like but will try now that my boys are a little older now. 3 yr old twin boys & they keep me busy.

How much slush we talking?  Are ATV's able to travel around or is there a good chance of them getting stuck?  Thanks.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 28, 2010, 12:09 PM
You can get around with a 4x4 I dont have the most aggressive tires and I didnt have a problem just had weight in the back and brought a shovel I did see a few trucks get stuck though.  I would leave the wheeler at home unless you want a headache.  Didnt run into any slush luckily.  Hopefully that rain melts a good 6 or 8 inches of snow. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: whitetail1001 on Dec 28, 2010, 02:10 PM
Jus left cl.  Drove a 4x4 ranger with no problems.  No slush either.  Gettin on at macintosh looked like a good place to get stuck so we got on at farmers.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Dec 28, 2010, 04:33 PM
Thanks guys.  :)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SpoonieLuv on Dec 29, 2010, 01:08 PM
Guys where is Farmers? I'm not real familiar with the lake. I've only fished McIntosh. Thanks.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ice-aholic on Dec 29, 2010, 07:16 PM
just wondering how much ice is up there and if fishing on thursday would be a good idea or not?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jagerdog on Dec 29, 2010, 09:43 PM
MacIntosh is defin itely sloppy, and the landing is nasty.  You can get on and off with a 4wd, but I just drag my sled.  As far as all the marks on the vexilar, I think a lot of them are fingerling Walleyes, as I tend to get one once in a while when the screen is lit up and I jig aggressively.  Guys with cameras should have the best idea.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 30, 2010, 08:40 AM
The ice around Farmers is pushing 14 it kinda turned into a dead sea out there the past few days.  Dead enough to move the house.  Moved to a reef and around 5 o clock the vexilar lights up like a grizzwold family christmas but ya cant catch any of them must be really really small.  Think im going to put down some chubs today and see what happens.  This damp drizzly weather should melt back some snow and make travel easy for all.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 30, 2010, 07:07 PM
I spent all day on Clear Lake and what can I say its wet.  2-4" of water on the ice.  It should be better by sunday with the cold front coming in.  We did get 60 Yellows but we worked are butt off for them.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ed4 on Dec 30, 2010, 07:26 PM
fished all day there too today on little lake. We marked em like crazy on the vexilar so we dropped the camera down to see what was going on.  Big schools of yellows would pass by with one or two coming over looking at our bait and then turning away.  The harder you jigged the more that would come check it out but only managed to get 2 to bite all day.  We tried in 5 foot of water....8 foot....12 foot....and 20 foot...all the same result ??? Our best luck came in the 12'. That is where we got 2 to bite and seen the most.  Also seen a perty big muskie cruise through in the afternoon!  We were able to get around on the quad alright.  Some deep slush and lots-o-water on top the ice.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 31, 2010, 06:34 PM
The lake has really went to h e l l in the last two-three years.  Its kinda a sad excuse of a fishery anymore.  A man kinda gets burnt out on yellows after awhile.  Maybe they should kill the whole d amn thing and start over?  Wonder if the fish kill chemical kills mussels?  Its so outta balance over there now its sickening.  If anyone catches a limit of keeper eyes over there this winter ill give them a million bucks .  Any fishery biologists that arent in the states pocket wanna do a study over there and tell em their wrong?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: whitetail1001 on Dec 31, 2010, 10:46 PM
Mus have had a few cocktails tonight? But I do agree.  Its mother nature tho.  Sooner than later the yellows will run outa food and the walleye will prevail!!!  Yeeee haw!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: c.r.rick on Dec 31, 2010, 11:03 PM
buster i agree one hundered percent on that down this way at otter creek lake they have a no yellow return your to leave them on the shore or ice if you catch them cuz they have invaided so bad there.  sorry for the spelling but its new years lol happy new years to all. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Jan 01, 2011, 05:11 AM
Dead sea! :sick: Think is time to start over... Starting with the DNR regulations, b/c they are the back bone of the lake(Slot Limit). Fishing Clear Lake has been a waist of time for the last 3 years. Better off doing some traveling and hiring real guides. Try lakes like Waubay, Lynn, Roy, and Bitter in SD. Upper Red, Pepin, and Pool 4 in MN. Devils lake in ND, Lake Winnipeg in Canada.

RIP Clear Lake :-[
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Jan 01, 2011, 09:21 AM
I can see getting burned out on the yellows a little, but are they even as good as they were?  The reports Ive seen have been 7-9 inch fish, and few of them.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: RickB on Jan 01, 2011, 11:34 AM
I agree the yellow bass population is getting out of control. The walleyes are far an few between. I believe a slot limit is called for. An as far as I am concerned 14 in walleyes are to small to keep. You know as well as I do there are people, that are going to keep walleyes that are shy of 14 inches. An if you are one of those that in the spring that go out an get your limit in the morning an return in the afternoon an do it again, you are not helping the walleye population at all. Just my thoughts.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 01, 2011, 01:05 PM
Yeh the yellows that I have caught this winter have been pretty dinky but I fillet them all anyways If I catch 400 in a day 400 go home with me and get swiftly executed.  You cant thin them down even if every angler did that.  Theyre kinda a scourge.  Id like to see the creel survey on any given weekend and see how many yellows to keeper walleyes are caught lake wide.  10000:1 ratio I more than assure you.  Isnt there a freedom of information act?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Chickenfarmer on Jan 01, 2011, 05:34 PM
I must say the more I read the more I am becoming disapointed. When I moved away from Big Spirit I was hopeing to find a good fisherie over here. Not sounding too good. Not much for drillin holes but love getting the boat out. When is typical ice out on CL??
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: c.r.rick on Jan 01, 2011, 06:43 PM
hey buster id say yall need to push your local dnr and put a no yellow back to the lake policy in effect like otter creek lake did cuz it seems to be working there nicely the numbers are deminishing fast.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Jan 01, 2011, 06:50 PM
I must say the more I read the more I am becoming disapointed. When I moved away from Big Spirit I was hopeing to find a good fisherie over here. Not sounding too good. Not much for drillin holes but love getting the boat out. When is typical ice out on CL??

Typical ice out is usually the last week of March.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Jan 01, 2011, 10:34 PM
e-coli 0157H7 infested pit with yellows and zebra mussels :-\ :'( :'( :-\
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 02, 2011, 12:43 PM
Im not to fond of the DNR around here I had one cut me off and almost cause a collision with me a few summers ago popped his lights on and cut in front of me at full throttle.  He somehow didnt see my rear light he said which was fully functioning.  Theres no need to be cowboys on the water there could have been a serious accident and I bet it would have been my fault somehow.  Wonder what they would have done if I cut in front of their boat 50 feet away at wide open throttle?  So now a days I dont talk to the DNR unless I have to.

A no yellow back policy would be a good one though. Just as long as they take them off the lake when theyre done.  I can just imagine 50,000 circling crows over Clear Lake now. :)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Northlander on Jan 02, 2011, 02:59 PM
I will add my 2 cents I guess. Just last year I talked to the Iowa DNR as they where all eating at the China Buffet one day. I asked them what happened with the walleye population? They didn't admit that it got over fished, but they did admit "that they want all of the walleyes to be fished out of Clear Lake" its evidently there goal somehow? Maybe revenue??? :-\ And he proceeded to tell me the number of fries being introduced into the lake, and that there was a lot of 12-13 inch eyes in there and that the next year would be better somehow....Well its next year, but what happened, its a widely fished lake I think... and I agree with the other gentleman we need to talk to the DNR and open the lines of communication here. Ask them what happened with our how many dollar dredging project?   ???

But its not all gloom and doom, yes we all can fish other places, I recently have been fishing other places, its to bad to with the gas prices the way they are, I dropped 50 bones on gas just to fish 2 hours away, but its a beautiful lake with perch, eyes, and crappies... So there are places, just have to explore more, wish I had people to car pool with for the bigger better lakes out there....
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jagerdog on Jan 02, 2011, 08:00 PM
     Struggled to catch fish tonight, but ended up with enough yellows for fish tacos.  Threw quite a few little ones back and missed a lot of fish.  I did better on gulp minnows than spikes, but I never really had fish biting well.  I just had a few here and a few there.  The vex had fish on the screen 80% of the time, but not a lot of biters.
     As far as the walleyes go, I'll throw my 2 cents in and say I think it is a little short sighted to blame the DNR and the yellows.  The problem I see is fishermen taking too many fish out in a very short period of time.  There were a lot of fish taken out in 05-07, and many were snagged or taken over the creel limit.  It's a shame that the walleyes declined so quickly, but we honestly have no one to blame but ourselves.  I'm sure this will anger a lot of folks, but it's what I believe.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishnfool-3 on Jan 02, 2011, 08:28 PM
I couldnt agree more with you jagerdog! 3 or years ago it was a total kamakazi bite! People cant help themselves if they catch em it kills them to put em back! I experienced the same thing on the cedar river. Days of boating 35 or 40 very nice walleyes in an afternoon are over. You will be hard pressed to catch more than a couple keepers aday now!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 02, 2011, 08:36 PM
I hate to say it but I believe they fell behind in the stocking for a few yrs since the fishery "was" doing good.  Bad economy could be partially to blame i'm sure their budget got slashed along with everyone elses.  Hopefully the massive shantytown over on the little lake is cleaning the yellows clocks.  No one has touched the east end of the lake it appears.  The marsh ramp snow has receded enough to drive out easily.  Billys,Gillmores and Hyvee is all out there not to mention the other small scatterred reefs and deep holes.  Maybe all them keeper eyes the dnr is talking about are over in them parts avoiding our baits? ;D  
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: FISH-MITS on Jan 02, 2011, 08:55 PM
I will add my 2 cents I guess. Just last year I talked to the Iowa DNR as they where all eating at the China Buffet one day. I asked them what happened with the walleye population? They didn't admit that it got over fished, but they did admit "that they want all of the walleyes to be fished out of Clear Lake" its evidently there goal somehow? Maybe revenue??? :-\ And he proceeded to tell me the number of fries being introduced into the lake, and that there was a lot of 12-13 inch eyes in there and that the next year would be better somehow....Well its next year, but what happened, its a widely fished lake I think... and I agree with the other gentleman we need to talk to the DNR and open the lines of communication here. Ask them what happened with our how many dollar dredging project?   ???

But its not all gloom and doom, yes we all can fish other places, I recently have been fishing other places, its to bad to with the gas prices the way they are, I dropped 50 bones on gas just to fish 2 hours away, but its a beautiful lake with perch, eyes, and crappies... So there are places, just have to explore more, wish I had people to car pool with for the bigger better lakes out there....
I'm willing to bet the DNR would like to have half the money we probably all spend on gas a year to drive and fish other Lakes - its a little backwards to me. I'd assume donate half to be able to fish better local water.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Jan 03, 2011, 02:11 AM
     Struggled to catch fish tonight, but ended up with enough yellows for fish tacos.  Threw quite a few little ones back and missed a lot of fish.  I did better on gulp minnows than spikes, but I never really had fish biting well.  I just had a few here and a few there.  The vex had fish on the screen 80% of the time, but not a lot of biters.
     As far as the walleyes go, I'll throw my 2 cents in and say I think it is a little short sighted to blame the DNR and the yellows.  The problem I see is fishermen taking too many fish out in a very short period of time.  There were a lot of fish taken out in 05-07, and many were snagged or taken over the creel limit.  It's a shame that the walleyes declined so quickly, but we honestly have no one to blame but ourselves.  I'm sure this will anger a lot of folks, but it's what I believe.

We fished it out mostly b/c it was legal. No strick slot limits, and very few DNR over there to regulate :-\
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Jan 03, 2011, 02:19 AM
When the fishing was good the DNR made it very public to everyone in all the the surrounding counties that the bite was on :%$#!: I will try to find the article. 

DNR to blame :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!::%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!::%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!::%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!::%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!::%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!::%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!::%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!::%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!::%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!::%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!::%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!: :%$#!:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Jan 03, 2011, 05:14 AM
Like Shantytown said we fished it out because it was legal.  Here's an article I found dated in Feb of 08. People were coming from all over to fish the lake.

CLEAR LAKE — When it comes to knowing exactly where and when the fish are biting on Clear Lake, no one knows better than Dan Fjeld.

Fjeld is the DNR creel clerk for Clear Lake. Rain or shine, summer or winter, he’s out and about conducting hundreds of angler interviews while recording the numbers, size, and species of fish those anglers catch. Biologists use that information to make hatchery, stocking, and other fish management decisions.

Although ice fishing ranks as the most unpredictable period of the year, angler numbers and angler success have remained high at the lake throughout the winter.

“People were able to get out on good ice early in the season, and they immediately began to find good numbers of walleyes and yellow bass,” says Fjeld. “Angler success remained high, the word quickly spread and crowds grew.”

By mid-January, Clear Lake’s ice shanty village had grown to around 100 permanent houses. During late afternoons, the number of structures often doubles as anglers install portable ice houses in preparation for the evening bite.

This winter, angler numbers appear to be holding into February. Last Saturday, for example, a late afternoon crowd of more than 800 gathered in hopes of bagging a sunset walleye.

“Most people just want to catch fish and are happy with either yellow bass or walleyes,” says Fjeld. “I’m not seeing huge catches of yellows, like in the spring, but the fish that are being caught are very acceptable. Eleven-inch yellow bass weighing up to one pound are pretty common. A lot of people are taking anywhere from a dozen to 15 of those fish per trip. That level of success definitely keeps anglers coming back.”

“Walleye fishing has been the most consistent,” reports Fjeld. “The best action is during early morning or from just before sunset until dark. Most keepers are running from 15 inches to 16 inches in length. Some 20-inch class fish are also being taken. A lot of people are catching one or two legal walleye right at sunset, and some are taking limits.”

Although fishing success has remained unusually consistent this winter, schools have recently become “increasingly on the move” as under water predators explore new food sources. In order to achieve maximum success, anglers need to move with them.

“The people catching the most fish are definitely moving with the fish,” says Fjeld. “I’ve interviewed people sitting in a permanent ice shack in the morning and have come back in the afternoon to find those same people sitting in the same house 300 or more yards from where they were earlier that day.”

“Based on the people I‘m talking to, there’s no question that Clear Lake is drawing anglers from a wide area,” says Fjeld. “I’m interviewing anglers who are making multiple visits from Cedar Rapids, Des Moines, and even coming down from Minnesota. I think it’s kind of humorous that people are traveling down from a state like Minnesota to catch walleyes at Clear Lake. That’s how good the fishing has been here this winter.”

A summary of Fjeld’s Clear Lake winter creel census will be available this spring.

 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: YellowSlayer on Jan 03, 2011, 05:37 PM
Not to change topics but has anybody heard anything on Rice, Silver, Elm, or Cornelia. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jagerdog on Jan 03, 2011, 09:06 PM
I think CappieBuster is correct in the stocking falling off, but I believe there is a reason for this.  I've been part of several stocking surveys and studies and the generally accepted practice (whether is right I don't know), but stocked fry mortality rises dramatically if wild or mature fish density is high.  Typically about 9% of stocked fry can survive the 1st year in low density years (like now unfortunately).  That drops to 2% in higher density years.  So, if 1 million fry are stocked,  90k will survive the first year in a low density year, only 20k in high density years.  I'd assue the DNR thought the 70k fish difference would be best used somewhere else.  The downside is, they probably saw this coming given the high pressure the lake was getting and should have stock some mature fish or policed it closer (and not cut off CB).
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jagerdog on Jan 03, 2011, 09:10 PM
I haven't fished Rice/Silver etc. yet this year.  If anyone wants to get together and fish them this weeked, let me know and we'll hit it and file a report.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crk89 on Jan 03, 2011, 11:34 PM
Fished Little lake Sun. am&pm went to Cornelia Mid-day...Results:
Little lake....25 yellows and a few sm walleye and perch
Cornelia....12 perch and a few gills
posted this on another site but only lookers, no feed back???
after 14 yrs. my plant went to Mexico(Rockwell Automation, Sumner) so now for a while I have time to fish...will post where I go and results so this may help everyone in their fishing adventures! Good luck to all!! Headed to volga in the am.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Jan 04, 2011, 04:06 AM
this lake has Pi**ed me off... Headin on a week long ice fishing trip. First stop Winnipeg, Canada next stop Upper Red lake, MN. Wish me luck ;D

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 04, 2011, 02:03 PM
Id be along if I had my passport!  Ill be on lake Winnipeg with ya for the late ice March bite tho ;D  Dont catch 2 many greenbacks now ya here!  Dont bring any eyes home under 15lbs!  And nothing under 25 from Red theres some monster gators in there.  That one on your wall is a 20lb toddler. :o  Give johhny p. a run for his money lol
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coketeck on Jan 04, 2011, 07:05 PM
Great weekend for the ice! Hit Big Lake Saturday good yellow bite but it did come in fast and filled the bucket fast. No keeper walleyes but still great day! Went to Spirit Lake Sunday and the perch are still fun to catch and hit a limit for dinner tonight. Have a great 2011 everybody stay safe!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bobracing32 on Jan 05, 2011, 11:28 AM
rice lake sucks, ive tried it twice in the last week. Only caught a handful of keeper perch. However there are hundreds on the camera, but there only three inch long fish.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Jan 05, 2011, 10:41 PM
Heading back out on the lake with my son, have not been out there for 2 weeks. We are going to focus on walleyes from 3 to 6pm. I will let you know how bad it was tommorrow.

If, I do get a limit I will be looking CRAPPIEBUSTER for my million dollar payout!! Is this a 1 lump sum or will it be paid over 20 years?

Guys, if you are getting tried of the scenery on Clear Lake consider a trip to Spirit the perch are attaining jumbo size and catching keeper walleye is more than a dream. Monday we had 45 nice perch and 2 walleyes 15 & 16 3/4.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tsmith17 on Jan 06, 2011, 12:27 AM
this lake has Pi**ed me off... Headin on a week long ice fishing trip. First stop Winnipeg, Canada next stop Upper Red lake, MN. Wish me luck ;D



Just got back from Upper Red a few weeks ago.  Have fun catching slot walleyes, I know we did! :)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: FISH-MITS on Jan 06, 2011, 11:52 AM
Been curious about Red myself... You catch any crappie?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 06, 2011, 08:51 PM
I better start saving cans ;D

The hayday of the stacked jumbo crappies at red is over im afraid.  Theres still some of them in there though.
You can catch all the eating sized eyes you can handle though.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tsmith17 on Jan 06, 2011, 11:36 PM
Been curious about Red myself... You catch any crappie?
We caught exactly zero crappies.  Talked to some locals and crappie are very few and far between.  Really too bad, kind of like walleyes at Clear Lake.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Jan 07, 2011, 02:02 AM
We caught 0 walleyes. I think I'll head back to Spirit.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 09, 2011, 10:13 AM
Refresh.

Wow.  No entries for two days.  Must be really sacking them at Clear & everyone has sealed lips.  ;)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 09, 2011, 01:17 PM
More than likely the exact opposite.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Jan 10, 2011, 07:49 AM
Come and get your fill of yellows!!!

 Had my 2 boys with me last night managed to fill a bucket between 2:30- 4:45. Only wanted 30 for a fish fry tonight, but before you know it I'm cleaning fish for an hour. Had a great time getting both kids out at the same time. Don't get that opportunity very often.

Get out with your kids stay mobile and use spikes with green jigs.

Alot of people out nobody talking lets here your reports.

Good luck
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 12, 2011, 12:33 PM
Im East Se of the channel in 9fow hard bottom marking millions of fish and havent caught one the past 2 times ive been out.  You can jig them up to about 5 foot under the hole and its tons of cigars.  I needa replenish my yellow supply.  Where have they been picking them up at?  The little lake?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Jan 12, 2011, 11:19 PM
Best bite is in 6 to 7 fow. You have to drill lots of holes to find the willing biters if you are marking fish that won't go move on. My brother and I were able to catch 20 yellows near the permies east of the channel on monday in 9 fow. I will be out Thursday looking for new fish starting to get a little crowded where I am. ;D

small jigs tipped with spikes

Good luck
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: spazman on Jan 13, 2011, 08:48 PM
What is the ice depth
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Jan 14, 2011, 02:19 AM
Just got back from up north. Did not land any hogs but managed 2 8 pounders, and a bunch of 3 to 4 pounders.

Red lake was slow until we got out by the center bar. Thanks to Chris and the portavilla crew we were the first ones out. Caught our limit with no problems!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nitro1 on Jan 14, 2011, 01:14 PM
  ???Out this morning, hot and heavy from 8:30 till 9:30 am.  8 fow. Couldn"t get the line back in the water fast enough!  Managed 9 yellows and a small perch!!!! 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 14, 2011, 02:40 PM
I havent measured the ice depth lately. If your hand augering it I feel sorry for you. ;)
Its thick im gonna say in the 15-18 range.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: russjess on Jan 14, 2011, 03:38 PM
how do you get to farmers beach coming off of I-35
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Jan 14, 2011, 06:58 PM
how do you get to farmers beach coming off of I-35

Go to google maps and type in farmers beach clear lake, ia
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: schuttlr on Jan 14, 2011, 07:56 PM
headed to farmers early tomorrow morning. good luck to everyone this weekend.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: buster-d on Jan 14, 2011, 09:24 PM
Wow- Farmers Beach- Busy,Busy,Busy!!!  Lots of people but is any body doing any good??????
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Jan 14, 2011, 10:15 PM
Steamed Zebra Mussels ??? May be the new thing :P
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: russjess on Jan 15, 2011, 04:29 AM
headed to farmers early tomorrow morning. good luck to everyone this weekend.
if you see a blue chevy truck with a tunnel cover on there stop over and say hi if you want  good luck
\
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 15, 2011, 12:40 PM
Theyre a delicassy in Spain doncha kno.  200 dollars a pound!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: schuttlr on Jan 15, 2011, 04:25 PM
one yellow bass was all i caught. got there at 6 am left at 10 30. dead sea. couple bluegills and crappie biting at big blue in mason in the afternoon though at least. Along with a few dink perch.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 16, 2011, 10:25 AM
Think the only thing anyone is catching over there is a buzz. Seen a few shacks over by dodges point looks like they were coming off the pumphouse ramp?  Think I'm going to get the portable out and hit up the east end of the lake I drove out a couple hundred yards off the ramp last nite just to see if it was do able the snow really wasnt that bad and this end of the lake looks untouched so far this winter. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coketeck on Jan 16, 2011, 06:58 PM
Not a bad weekend for the ice. Did have to move a little more often but came home with 50 yellows. Had a couple 13 inch eyes hope they will grow for next time I see them! Hit the 8-9 foot spots till you find the eaters and not the lookers. Have a good week luckydog. Had to cover the pager so hope you did well over at Spirit!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: THUNDERICE on Jan 17, 2011, 10:45 AM
Planning on heading to clear lake this weekend with a group.  This is a lake that we usually dont fish.  Is there any lake maps other than the one the DNR has on their website?  Also are there any coordinates of structure or points for this lake that are public?  If not where would you reccomend someone who is not familure with the lake start when looking for fish?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: JTM on Jan 17, 2011, 02:13 PM
We were out 12 hours on Farmers in a permanent and the fishing was pathetic. 12-15 yellows and that was it. Where are they catching the yellows? Do you have to be mobile and where??????
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 17, 2011, 06:22 PM
I wanna start seeing photo proof of those 50 fish days. Usually when I get a nice catch like that I take a picture to remember the good day.  Need help posting pictures on here?  Pm me.

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishing nut on Jan 17, 2011, 10:41 PM
x2
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Jan 18, 2011, 12:27 AM
x3 ;D I smell something fishy :o I know its not walleyes, maybe a few worthless yellows ::)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Jan 20, 2011, 08:41 AM
Not a bad weekend for the ice. Did have to move a little more often but came home with 50 yellows. Had a couple 13 inch eyes hope they will grow for next time I see them! Hit the 8-9 foot spots till you find the eaters and not the lookers. Have a good week luckydog. Had to cover the pager so hope you did well over at Spirit!


Hey, Coketec nice catch! The group of 3 I had out that day only managed 35 yellows and 1 13"er. We worked some of the 11' water guess we should have stayed a little shallower. Another, friend up from C.R. did hit a hot bite from 430 till 515 and end his day with 54 yellows and 4 shorts.

The perch bite at Spirit was ok we marked alot just had to work our butts off to get bites kept 50 threw back several 6 to 9" fish.

I will be out the next 5 days battling the cold. Sure fishing will be a little tough.

We are starting to catch a few on minnow and corks, but small jigs still produces more.

Crappiebuster pm me your ph # I will send you a couple photos. If you would like? Or maybe I will just stop by your shack and have a cold one with ya.


Good luck
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Jan 20, 2011, 02:52 PM
WOW, I didn't last long out there in the wind. Fished 5 different areas  from 10:30 till 2:00 slow only hooked 1 fish and did not see too many.

Snow is drifting in the roads and trails pretty fast right now.

Going to take tomm. off and start again on Saturday.

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishing nut on Jan 23, 2011, 09:26 AM
Fished sat. from 2:30 till 8:00 west side. Caught 3 crappie, 2 yellows 1 eye. Clear Lake is a different lake this year. Watched fish on the camera - very neutral, only saw small yellows. IMO the yellow bass are going to be the death of this lake!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Northlander on Jan 23, 2011, 01:07 PM
Well, my older brother and I fished Brainerd's Ice Fishing Extravaganza yesterday...We left at 4:30 a.m. and after stopping only 2 places and after the bus ride there we got on the ice and to a spot at 11:30 just in time! And it was fairly hard to find 2 holes... We had fun, but the fishing was not extravaganza just the people! Haha I spotted fish on the vexilar FL-18 that I just bought the week before (and I just love it!) We didn't get any bites, but there was people around us catching placing eyes within 50 ft of us I would say, so we where in the right general area. All in all I would say I would go back next year and do it again, hopefully get there the night before so I can get a hole picked out earlier.

Did any one else make it up there this year or in the past years? Tell me about your experience?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Jan 23, 2011, 06:39 PM
Saturday was a better day ended with 70 yellows and a couple specks and 3 short eyes. fished from 10-6.

going to hit it again Monday. No other reports? come on guys.

Coketec, were you ever able to get away from those pesky baby yellows?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Jan 23, 2011, 06:57 PM
here is a picture attempt.

(http://i55.tinypic.com/o6is9g.jpg)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Jan 23, 2011, 07:59 PM
Here you go nay sayers the 70 yellows from Saturday.

[IMG]http://i52.tinypi
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Jan 23, 2011, 08:01 PM
(http://i52.tinypic.com/20s9fy9.jpg)

Still learning sorry
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Jan 23, 2011, 10:02 PM
If you have nay-sayers, just put that days newspaper in the picture with you.  That will prove the date the fish were actually caught.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ScaleHusker on Jan 24, 2011, 07:37 AM
Nice catch luckydog.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: anderson_dc on Jan 24, 2011, 08:31 AM
Should have blacked out the tower over by the Baptist camp too luckydog  ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: brittlab on Jan 24, 2011, 08:46 AM
no need to post pics for anyone. if your that uptight about giving away your area, why even put a report up to begin with. just go about your business and keep quiet.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bull_Gill_Mike on Jan 24, 2011, 09:21 AM
Cracks me up..... The guy gets called a liar etc. for how long, so he goes and posts some pics verifying the catches he's had and now he's uptight for trying not to give up his spots! Nice catch lucky! Thanks for the reports
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 24, 2011, 11:34 AM
Nice ski looks like the kid doesnt know what to think :tipup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Jan 24, 2011, 04:49 PM
The kid caught that musky on 6/2 fireline and # 5 flicker shad.

Thanks for the help posting pics Crappiebuster. ;D

No pics today but caught a bunch of Yellows and 2 12" walleyes. Fished from 10 to 3 pm in 8' to 10' jigs and spikes.

Good Luck
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nitro1 on Jan 24, 2011, 08:06 PM
Out from 9-1pm, 10 fow in the little lake. Managed a couple of yellows, a small perch, a dink walleye and a 11" eye!! Its nice to get a little variety other then just catching yellows. Fun day just to be out fishing!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bus33 on Jan 25, 2011, 08:40 AM
here is a picture attempt.

(http://i55.tinypic.com/o6is9g.jpg)

Best part of this pic are the two portly dudes on the dock ;D  Nice ski for sure...congratulations to the boy.  He will remember that for a long time.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Jan 25, 2011, 10:19 AM
(http://i55.tinypic.com/27zmbr5.jpg)


Clear Lake on the 23rd of Jan. 125 Yellows and Even a few Crappies!! :)  12 fow green jig and spikes.

 (http://i52.tinypic.com/2celqhl.jpg)

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Jan 25, 2011, 09:03 PM
Nice to see the crappies too.   On that note, 2 years ago we had fished Brushy and caught 5 crappies.  Went to Clear and had them in the bucket with some yellow bass.  Some guy walking by saw the crappies and just came unglued at us for keeping them.  Said all the locals had been trying hard to get habitat and get them going and it wasnt ok to keep them.  Im pretty sure he didnt believe me when I told him they came from Brushy, but whatever.   
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Jan 25, 2011, 09:35 PM
The Crappies are doing really good.  We have caught 4 year classes of Crappies this year.  The Perch are also making a good comeback. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Jan 26, 2011, 06:54 AM
Thats good to hear.  We dont have near enough places to go catch perch around here.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 26, 2011, 05:00 PM
Most the crappies you get outta Clear Lake are nice.  Hard patterning them out in the winter tho.  Spring time is a different story.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 26, 2011, 08:15 PM
The Crappies are doing really good.  We have caught 4 year classes of Crappies this year.  The Perch are also making a good comeback. 

Is it the dredging that is contributing to the good perch revival?  This summer, I was wondering if the little lake was going to get winter fished a lot more sec to the dredging.  It may be the hot spot in mid winter when the fish go deeper.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Jan 26, 2011, 08:56 PM
The Perch need weeds to lay their eggs and over the last two years the vegetation growth has made a huge comeback.  The dredging project does have some to do with that.  I think the Zebra mussels are having a bigger part.   We should see a good Perch Fishing in the next few years.  Two years ago we managed to catch 31 perch over 10" out of clear lake.  Don't ask how because I don't know.  Just plain luck. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: original_iceman on Jan 27, 2011, 12:14 PM
Yeah I hear ya, sometimes it helps to have lady luck on your side.  Too bad she doesn't help me out very much... lol...
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 27, 2011, 01:11 PM
Oh the big ones are in there.  Trying to find a picture of a 12 and 11 that came from there a few years ago. :-\  Anything under 9 is not worth filleting in my opinion. Seems like all the ones ive caught this year are in the 6-8 range that is a good sign to see.  I guess they were thick in there in the early 80s couldnt dip a line for eyes without catching a perch they never established any size to them though and were more of a nuisance than anything. Maybe in a few yrs with improving water quality the perch population will improve.  Still waiting for the walleyes to improve. ;)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 27, 2011, 04:48 PM
Oh the big ones are in there.  Trying to find a picture of a 12 and 11 that came from there a few years ago. :-\  Anything under 9 is not worth filleting in my opinion. Seems like all the ones ive caught this year are in the 6-8 range that is a good sign to see.  I guess they were thick in there in the early 80s couldnt dip a line for eyes without catching a perch they never established any size to them though and were more of a nuisance than anything. Maybe in a few yrs with improving water quality the perch population will improve.  Still waiting for the walleyes to improve. ;)

My ole' man & I were fishing this fall & he pulled at least a 12" perch out of there. He also pulled out a 9" or so blue gill which surprised the heck out of me.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: russjess on Jan 27, 2011, 04:54 PM
i cant believe the dnr said yellow bass fishing was good there in the report they give out everyweek what a joke i was there 3 days last week with a buddy of mine that has a permanent out there and he said it was horrible we evern tried the little lake see how much they know
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 27, 2011, 07:09 PM
Theres gills and even largemouth in Clear Lake.  Flatheads should be coming up soon also.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Jan 28, 2011, 04:41 AM
i cant believe the dnr said yellow bass fishing was good there in the report they give out everyweek what a joke i was there 3 days last week with a buddy of mine that has a permanent out there and he said it was horrible we evern tried the little lake see how much they know

2 things.   First the DNR reports are typically a week or two, sometimes 3 weeks old before they make it to print.  Second, the yellows can be biting really good in one spot, and not at all 50 feet away.  If your permanent was set up on top of some active yellows that would be perfect, but once they move, you pretty much have to follow them.  When we fish yellows on Clear, we generally dont even take portable shacks, once you are too comfortable sitting in the heat, it keeps you from moving around to find the active fish.  Just my 2 cents.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 28, 2011, 10:35 AM
I agree with Nick we moved our shack 75-100 yards off the rocks onto the flat and in two hrs I had 17 yellows 2 eyes and a perch.  I was marking plenty of fish on the rocks just none of them would bite.  Musta moved to a pocket of biters.  Always good to move the house at least once a week anyways to prevent those dreaded drifts.  The fish are definetly still roaming the flats off farmers.  Pound the bottom with a heavy buckshot and stir up that silt till you mark a few on the vexilar then give em the bait and switch and drop down a smaller spoon catch a few and repeat.  If you got reel weeds drop a few rolls of them down there also.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Jan 28, 2011, 04:23 PM

Great Advise guys!

 I told Mr.russjess in a pm that being mobile was the key. He didn't follow the most important rule.

Secrets to a successful yellow outing:

1. stay mobile 10 ft can make the differ. between 2 and 20 fish move till you find a hotspot. ( I start with 15 to 20 holes in a grid 20' to 30' apart)

2. small jigs ( green, gold, orange/yelow)

3. 7 to 12 ft most of the time right now.

4. Tip said jigs with spikes or cut bait.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SpoonieLuv on Jan 28, 2011, 04:31 PM
Great advice luckydog35! Was on a different lake last sunday, didn't catch a thing for the first 4 hrs in a particular area, moved to a spot 300 yds away and caught them as fast as you could get the jig/spoon down. Total night and day difference, the fish at the first spot were real finicky and at the 2nd spot super aggressive. When in doubt, move, then move again. ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Jan 28, 2011, 09:47 PM




Gold, Green, Spikes, and Cut Bait!

Jan 28th 152 Yellows
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 28, 2011, 10:14 PM
A few from tonight. Couldnt fit them all in the picture though. Cleaned 43 tonight with a dull knife. :-\
(http://i54.tinypic.com/2d85lk8.jpg)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: c.r.rick on Jan 28, 2011, 10:31 PM
nice catch buster love the pb in the back lol  ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 30, 2011, 12:17 AM
Heres another haul from tonight in just a few hours.  Couldnt fit all of them on the tailgate though kept floppin off there. :-\
(http://i52.tinypic.com/29av3ic.jpg)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: c.r.rick on Jan 30, 2011, 09:16 AM
them seem to be good sized yellas how long???
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Jan 30, 2011, 09:38 AM
HHHMMM  I might have to road trip to clear lake this coming week!!!!  Great mess of yellows!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 30, 2011, 11:58 AM
Never really measured them i'd say the smaller ones are 7-8 and the bigger ones are around 10. I keep them all just because them yellows eat all the eyes food. ;)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Jan 30, 2011, 06:44 PM
Im going to call you Yellow Buster!! ;D  Great Job!! What are you getting them on? We did great yesterday.  Gold Jig with spikes and minnow heads
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 31, 2011, 12:31 AM
Yeh they were biting fast and furious. No skill involved really.  Picked them up western edge of farmers in 10fow.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jagerdog on Jan 31, 2011, 11:55 AM
Did good last night in front of MacIntosh. I kept 25 Yellows cause that's all I care to clean and left a bunch of 4 inchers on the ice.  Some of the little ones were silver bass.  I caught fish on spikes, eyes, honey worms, power bait and jigging raps, but the best option was half a gulp smelt.  Man, the ice is getting thick.  I need to get a power auger!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 31, 2011, 12:31 PM
Wow you hand crank it?  Your hardcore for sure. Id prolly give up at the 20 inch mark or blowout my shoulder :-\.  Anyone have a decent power auger for this guy to buy at a good price?
 :tipup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bullhead King on Jan 31, 2011, 03:19 PM
Actually I do have one.  I don't remember what kind it is as I am at work now, but will post what it is later when I get home.  But here is what I do know.  My dad passed away 4 years ago and has an auger, which I am guessing 8inch.  I want to sell it as I already have one so I don't need it.  It has not been started in 4 years as it has sat in the shed.  There is little to no gas in it.  I would guess that it would need the carb cleaned and gone over as I have not tried to even start it.  So if you are interested or anybody out there PM me so the thread doesn't get hijacked.  I just want to get rid of it as it is taking up space in my garage so all I am asking is $100 cash.

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jagerdog on Jan 31, 2011, 09:40 PM
King,
     Consider it sold.  I drive through Northwood everyday (live in Manly, work in Glenville).  Drop me a line and we set something up.  Or we can meet fishing??????

Buster,
     I am pretty hardcore.  Most people think my enormous left arm is from being married too long, but I must have cut 2 million holes in the last 35 years.  By the way, the auger was an upgrade from an old spoon auger back in the 70's and before that was a spud.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bassfishnhunt on Feb 01, 2011, 08:57 AM
Is there a morning bite or is the bite best the last couple of hours of daylight? I am thinking about making the trip up there Friday. Last year I fished the little lake but is the bite better on the big lake? Any help is greatly appreciated.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Feb 01, 2011, 09:47 AM
Is there a morning bite or is the bite best the last couple of hours of daylight? I am thinking about making the trip up there Friday. Last year I fished the little lake but is the bite better on the big lake? Any help is greatly appreciated.

I would say morning & night are good.  But, I think the evening bite is better & a little more aggressive. Bet set up before the sun comes up in the morning.  In the afternoon, be reddy anywhere from 4:30 to 7:00.  I think the best bite is from 5:00-5:30 to 6:30.  Can be real slow in the middle part of the day with almost nothing biting.  Others who fish it more may know the secrets for mid day fishing on Clear. Maybe move a lot or target perch, I dunno. Buster may help. Good luck & yank some yellers out of the big pond!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Feb 01, 2011, 09:44 PM
(http://i51.tinypic.com/33bo1v7.jpg)

Whoops  luckdog and I got into a few perch.  We had a group of 5 on Spirit today and we smoked the Perch.  121 in the -30 below zero conditions. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: wallyhunter on Feb 02, 2011, 12:34 PM
nice catch of perch! thought I had to go to Wisconsin for that kinda catch.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: BigRock947 on Feb 02, 2011, 12:39 PM
That's frinckin' awesome. Good job guys!!! Looks like you had a blast.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Feb 02, 2011, 11:03 PM
(http://i53.tinypic.com/3008ww3.jpg)

Just another day in Paradise.   ;D



How is the Yellow bite and how is the snow on Clear? 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 03, 2011, 06:12 PM
I was wondering how the snow was over there also.  Can a man still get around over there?
Are the roads plowed open again at least?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Feb 03, 2011, 07:53 PM
(http://i53.tinypic.com/3008ww3.jpg)

Just another day in Paradise.   ;D



How is the Yellow bite and how is the snow on Clear? 

It's crap coming on the Clear Lake thread & posting pictures of perch from Spirit.  Put it on a Spirit thread. If you're going to advertise your perch guide service, put it in a Spirit Lake thread.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Feb 03, 2011, 08:41 PM
Im not advertising I'm showing the people that know me that the Perch are going on Spirit. If you don't like it don't look!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  ;)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: esox_magnum on Feb 03, 2011, 08:58 PM
I was wondering how the snow was over there also.  Can a man still get around over there?
Are the roads plowed open again at least?

 County roads are plowed, no plowed roads on the ice, your on your own out there.  BTW perch have been going on Spirit for going on 3 years now, nothing new.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 03, 2011, 11:23 PM
Esox sorry I was wondering about the travel on Clear Lake man. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bullhead King on Feb 04, 2011, 10:27 AM
Auger update.  Jaegerdog now has a powerauger!!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 04, 2011, 11:55 AM
His shoulder will thank him.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Feb 04, 2011, 03:22 PM
Im not advertising I'm showing the people that know me that the Perch are going on Spirit. If you don't like it don't look!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  ;)

Those are some nice healthy looking perch, though.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: catman59 on Feb 05, 2011, 05:18 AM
Anyone give an update on the driving conditions ? Thanks
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Feb 05, 2011, 06:54 AM
Farmers doesn't loo good.  There is a lot of water on tip of the ice.  Call Dan at the Crazy Minnow for a report he was out yesterday.  641+357+2248
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: hndaugr on Feb 05, 2011, 09:27 AM
Went on at Macintosh. From 4:15 to 5:30 caught 20 Yellows and 1 short eye.Really appreciate someone plowed a path over towards the weed bed. Wasn"t much put it sure helped me out.Thanks again. When I left at 6 saw some water on the ice by the park to the north of the ice road :o
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 05, 2011, 12:28 PM
I went thru that sippy hole at about 2 and there was quite a bit of water. When I left at 6 the water was even deeper pretty rough goin thru that just was kinda hopin there was ice under it.  When I got to the landing I noticed they plowed an alternate path around the water.  Haha oh well it made for an intresting fishing experience.  Good hole to test your trucks abilitys ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: c.r.rick on Feb 05, 2011, 10:14 PM
i think id stick with testing my trucks abilitys in mud on a level b road then on the ice cuz i hate swimming in cold water but dont mind getting muddy lol ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jagerdog on Feb 05, 2011, 10:27 PM
New(er) auger kicks butt!  A new fuel line and she took off like a scalded dog.  Fishing wasn't too hot, but I caught enough to eat.  I did break off a musky or a big cat.  Whatever it was, it showed no respect at all for 2lb Seagar.  Apparently, if you want to target Muskies on CL, tie on a #12 glow jig with 1/2 of a gulp smelt and just hold on.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: esox_magnum on Feb 05, 2011, 10:28 PM
Tested mine on Spirit today, only needed help once, my fault for not using the gas  ;D Ther than that one ooops made my own roads out a couple miles.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Feb 08, 2011, 01:39 PM
Goona head out tomorrow just wondering where the hotspots are...gna drop my permie off for a few weeks. Been to busy to get it out earlier. Got a new toy so its been hard to get out there. I really wanna spend some time out on the lake. Just wonderin where the biting is good, and what type of bait everybody is using... any information will be helpful..is there roads plowed by dodges point and around the little lake?
Thanks for your help! Good luck everyone!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 08, 2011, 10:47 PM
If you head off the farmers beach ramp make sure you hang a right immediatly and use that path.  If you go straight your gonna drop thru and not be happy.  Seen it today wasnt very pretty. :-\
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Lotus Driver on Feb 09, 2011, 12:59 PM
I saw that water straight off Farmers Beach last Saturday. Unfortunately I got stupid and decided to blaze a trail to the left, bad mistake, got stuck like never before :o!

If anyone from one of the group that stopped to help free me is on this board.......Thank You!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bus33 on Feb 09, 2011, 02:11 PM
I saw that water straight off Farmers Beach last Saturday. Unfortunately I got stupid and decided to blaze a trail to the left, bad mistake, got stuck like never before :o!

If anyone from one of the group that stopped to help free me is on this board.......Thank You!!!!!!!!

Are we talking open water? 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Lotus Driver on Feb 09, 2011, 06:48 PM
What I saw Saturday was vehicle tracks for about 30 ft full of water. Don't know how deep they were and didn't want to find out. I went left but should have gone right.

Note to self; get lazy a** out of truck and scout things before deciding to blaze new trail.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 09, 2011, 11:43 PM
Lotus was that you stuck in that blue f-150?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bassfishnhunt on Feb 10, 2011, 07:33 AM
I have tomorrow off of work and was thinking about heading to Clear Lake. I was curious where should a guy head to the big lake or Mcintosh? Is it a far walk if I fish the big lake from Farmers? Not looking for specifics just any general info and wondering if the yellows are biting. Thanks
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 10, 2011, 12:42 PM
Theres a nice doublewide path going out from farmers even see a few cars out there.  Got 198 yellows in the past 9 days so theyve been biting pretty decent.  Set up in 10fow at the western fringes of farmers.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Lotus Driver on Feb 10, 2011, 05:24 PM
Lotus was that you stuck in that blue f-150?

Black F150 Super Crew.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Feb 11, 2011, 02:02 AM
Riding the snowmobile over to the lake this weekend for the snowmobile fest! Come check it out
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bignate33 on Feb 11, 2011, 02:27 PM
What is going on with snowmobiles?  It is going to be a pain for the fishing?  Was thinking of making a road trip up for fishing, but if there are going to be hundreds of sleds flying around, I may look for different water.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Feb 11, 2011, 03:43 PM
I wouldn't worry about the sleds to much.  The DNR keep a close eye on them up there.  Same goes for those blasted jet skiers up there.  If they start harassing the fisherman the DNR put the smack down on them!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Feb 12, 2011, 01:43 AM
LOL! Rode to the lake today. There were hundreds of snowmobiles on the lake. It was cooling seeing all the vintage sleds... Snowmobile races tomorrow on the little lake
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Feb 14, 2011, 12:29 AM
Anyone pulling houses yet? Going to be a warm week with lows well above freezing. Going to be sloppy :P
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 14, 2011, 05:26 PM
High of 55 on Thursday.  Shes getting about that time boys.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappiiguy on Feb 14, 2011, 07:32 PM
Time for the late ice bite to start...  We usually head up your way once our ice gets bad.   How much ice you have?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Feb 14, 2011, 09:33 PM
There is 20 to 26 inches of ice on clear lake as of last weekend.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ed4 on Feb 17, 2011, 06:41 PM
We went to Farmers today around 1pm.  There was a river of water running down the shoulder of the gravel road from all the snow melt.  All the water was running straight onto the access and right down the plowed road going right and under the snow going left.  Couldnt tell where the edge of the ice was and there is ALOT of mud and sand washed up so we didnt brave going out.  There were a few other trucks out there thought.   One pulling a big Ice Castle shack got hung up pretty bad it looked like to the left of the main road about 75 yards out.  Not sure how there were gonna get off the ice but I dont think you could have at Farmers Access.

Macintosh didnt look to good either.  THere were alot more people fishing the little lake that must have dragged  on and a handful of trucks.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nitro1 on Feb 17, 2011, 08:49 PM
I saw it!!!!  Was there around 3:30, looked nasty!!! The Ice Castle was gone then, looked as tho they went west of the west plowed road out.  Still access over by the park in Ventura.  No need for an auger, alot of open holes to choose from. Nearing the end :-( :( :( :( :( :(
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: corey2145 on Feb 21, 2011, 05:36 PM
any one have any luck last week end
 ???
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: iowaicer on Feb 22, 2011, 01:46 PM
Tried fishing there for the first time ever. Stopped at the crazy minow for some advice before heading out. Fished morning and evening the 18th and 19th. Caught one yellow the whole time. Tried fishing by the pump house, and the small lake. Tried shallow water and deep. lots of lookers, no biters. Ice was great, should have several more weeks of fishing there. here in Des Moines I am done.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: hndaugr on Feb 25, 2011, 09:03 AM
Walked on little lake 3P.M. Thur. Good ice and better fishing. 15 yellow 3 cigars and 3 runt perch. Fast and furious from 4 to 5. No crowd either :o
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Mar 01, 2011, 11:22 PM
The fishing has picked up out on Farmers!  ;)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Derek on Mar 03, 2011, 09:40 AM
Is Farmers driveable or is everyone walking out?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Mar 03, 2011, 05:39 PM
Driving ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Derek on Mar 03, 2011, 08:07 PM
Driving ;D

I decided to walk out this afternoon and had a blast catching yellows. Some guy drove up right beside me and asked how I was doing, got a little nervous as the ice was cracking and popping around me. Sure glad he decided to fish 200 yds away!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Mar 04, 2011, 07:12 AM
The yellows are really hammering right now and plenty of good ice!!!!!!!!!!!! friend and I had a bucket full from 10-2 yesterday. Fishing out on farmers.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Derek on Mar 04, 2011, 10:13 PM
We fished again this morning catching 24 total between 3 guys. The morning bite is definately not as hot as it was the afternoon before. It sure is fun though! May come up again Monday night.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Mar 07, 2011, 07:35 AM
Took kids to little lake from 1-3 pm. yellows were biting okay................


(http://i55.tinypic.com/2h4arg9.jpg)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Mar 07, 2011, 10:09 PM
Nice Your just Lucky! ;)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bassfishnhunt on Mar 08, 2011, 07:02 AM
Nice mess of fish, looks like the kids had fun. A buddy and I were at Farmers and didnt have near the luck you did. The fish would swim up like they were going to hit then nothing?????? Is there a trick to catching these yellows? We tried waxworms, spikes, minnow heads, and cut bait. ???
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Mar 08, 2011, 07:53 PM
Did you have a camera?  I would bet that they were tiny fish.  You will know when you are on the right fish!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bassfishnhunt on Mar 09, 2011, 05:32 AM
No we did not take the camera with. I guess we should have just kept moving. Next time!!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: number905 on Mar 12, 2011, 08:26 AM
Hey,

Planning on heading up there tomorrow. It'll be my 2nd time icefishing and my first time out on clear lake. Can anyone recommend any spots? From what i've been reading, Farmers beach is good? Also, any ice condition updates? Would hate to drive all the way up there and have to turn around.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: russjess on Mar 12, 2011, 08:27 AM
edges are bad i heard
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: hndaugr on Mar 12, 2011, 03:06 PM
 :)Had good luck last Monday and yesterday in the little lake. Ice is still thick but not good quality. Safe for walking and 4  wheelr. Even some cigars sprinkled in.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Mar 12, 2011, 03:35 PM
thanks for the reports.  we are coming up monday hoping for a good bite on the yellows one last time.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Mar 12, 2011, 08:39 PM
The ice is plenty safe just use common sense around the open water areas.

Fishing for yellows is red hot right now. Move around till you find active fish. Jigging spoons and cutbait.

3 of us managed 53 yellows in 2 hours 4pm till 6pm. That was all we could stand in the wind Saturday.


(http://i51.tinypic.com/24v8k5x.jpg)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: number905 on Mar 12, 2011, 09:24 PM
Nice catch! Thanks for all the info. We are DEFINETLY coming up tomorrow and I cant be more excited. How is the morning bite?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Mar 13, 2011, 08:17 AM
We fished Farmers a week ago and did ok, has it been better in the little lake?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Mar 13, 2011, 06:22 PM
YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The morning bite is very good.

300 plus yellows, 15 white bass, 2 13" walleyes.

Great way to spend my birthday, with my 2 sons.

Get out and hammer them!!! Spoons and cutbait in 8' to 9' of waterr.

(http://i56.tinypic.com/1zvwizp.jpg)





Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: TRCrappie on Mar 13, 2011, 07:44 PM
Good to see that the fish were that active when the you took the kids.  Had a couple good days this year when I brought mine out, but last couple before this year taking them was a sure way to shut down a good bite.  Nice when it works out like that.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Mar 13, 2011, 08:10 PM
Could you widen out the angle on that camera lens so I can tell where you are fishing?  Looks like I might have one trip left in the books this winter.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: number905 on Mar 15, 2011, 11:09 PM
Do you guys still think there will be ice on little lake this weekend or do you think we're done for the year?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bassfishnhunt on Mar 16, 2011, 09:25 AM
I was there Tuesday morning and there was still a good 15" of ice. I am headed back there Thursday and Friday morning I will post the conditions. I would say unless there is a lot of rain you should be fine fishing the weekend.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: number905 on Mar 16, 2011, 09:36 AM
thanks a lot for the replie. i really appreciate it!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bassfishnhunt on Mar 18, 2011, 09:15 PM
I was there Thursday and Friday AM and the bite was slow, you really had to work for them. Maybe I just didnt move around enough ??? The ice this morning was about 12" thick. Getting on the ice might be a challenge tomorrow if the sun actually came out up there today. If you go BE SAFE!!!!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: number905 on Mar 18, 2011, 11:27 PM
Thanks for the info. Still planning on going out on sunday as of right now. Will probably call the bait shop tomorrow afternoon for an ice report. Hopefully there is still some out there.

If anyone else has an update tomorrow i'd really appreciate it  :)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: craigthor on Mar 20, 2011, 05:15 PM
Any updates on the ice up there? Just found out I get the next 3 days off and could use one alst ice fishing trip.

Craig
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: J. Rosonke on Mar 21, 2011, 11:04 PM
I fished the little lake this afternoon, the rain did a number on the ice and it's pretty much done. really "squishy" in places. Only caught 2 tiny yellows in 2 hours for my trouble.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Mar 23, 2011, 09:25 AM
Would somebody post when the ice is out?  Thanks
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Mar 24, 2011, 09:00 AM
There are still very brave :o ( stupid people) out in the little lake as of last night. I guess they think a few yellows are worth risking their life.

I would wait till next week and put the boat in.

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Mar 24, 2011, 03:16 PM
There are still very brave :o ( stupid people) out in the little lake as of last night. I guess they think a few yellows are worth risking their life.

I would wait till next week and put the boat in.



No crap.  Is it really worth it??   ???  I agree.
Title: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: slammin slabs on Oct 23, 2011, 11:22 PM
Was at clear lake today tried north side by inlet with no luck than went to grade on jetty with no luck ended up between big and small clear out on the point where boats pass by and had a crazy time with yellows and a few eyes was fishing a slip bobber with minnow while trying to adjust for the shallow depth had yellows ferociously attacking my slip bobber it was insane at one point had one almost on land I couldn't believe that it had the bobber all the way in its mouth   ??? so I shortened the hook to within 6 inches and 3 inches hoping the bobber would attract them and than they would hit the minnow with no luck they just kept pounding the bobber so I set it right on top of the hook and still couldn't hook up I tried jigs spoons with no luck and it had to be florescent green they wouldn't hit orange I was so disappointed I usually carry floating jigs but had none >:( I'm pretty sure had I had some we could have hammered the yellows they were going aerial after the bobber my 5 year old had a ball even though we never caught a fish
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currantly
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Oct 24, 2011, 12:46 AM
hmmm.... Very interesting :P
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currantly
Post by: anderson_dc on Oct 24, 2011, 06:53 AM
Should have tried a top water bait
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Oct 25, 2011, 03:35 AM
JUMP'N IN THE BOAT :P
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: slammin slabs on Oct 27, 2011, 10:40 PM
I had small raps but none were floating I've never in my life seen anythingh like this it reminded me of fly fishing for crappie and gils in mid to late summer wish I would have had my fly rod
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: CrappieBuster on Nov 03, 2011, 01:34 PM
Are the docks still in?  Seems a tad bit chilly to be out in the boat. ;)
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: IAEYE on Nov 04, 2011, 07:36 AM
Whats up Buster

Im sure all the docks are out.   >:(  Im going out sat. to bang a few eyes.  Some buddys of mine have been getting a few large Walleyes after dark. 25-28" Maybe If I have a little luck I can get one!!
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: CrappieBuster on Nov 04, 2011, 08:05 AM
Yep I'd imagine the pigs are strapping on the feedbag over there.  They are in the river at least and the big ones are just getting ready to play.  I might try and make it over to the pond one last time but its hard to pry yourself away from a limit of river eyes. ;)
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: slammin slabs on Nov 04, 2011, 04:37 PM
i havent hit the river yet but i hear its picking up ganna have to hit it this weekend and see if i cant get a limit and yes docs are out at clear lake most were out last weekend
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: CrappieBuster on Nov 10, 2011, 02:22 PM
Anyone make it out?
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: IAEYE on Nov 10, 2011, 10:36 PM
maybe this weekend
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: slammin slabs on Dec 07, 2011, 09:19 PM
was in mason city x mas shopping and on the way home saw a flip over out on the lake ;D ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Dec 08, 2011, 09:17 AM
Any reports of fish being caught?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 08, 2011, 10:24 AM
There was some people out yesterday but no reports.  I would guess that the Yellows can be caught they just need to be found first.  I would start 6 -7 fow
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: cpyle1229 on Dec 08, 2011, 02:50 PM
Just got the DNR weekly fish report apparently 2-5 inches on clear lake.  If everything goes as planned tonight and tomorrow it is on this weekend for me at Clear Lake! ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 08, 2011, 05:19 PM
Got onto a buncha smalleyes and some crappies over there last nite.  12fow
Might be getting the 4 wheeler out there this weekend.
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 08, 2011, 05:24 PM
That was me :)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ice pig 121 on Dec 08, 2011, 08:44 PM
Awesome, was it good looking ice.  It may not be long before the big houses go out! 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: cpyle1229 on Dec 08, 2011, 10:14 PM
Got onto a buncha smalleyes and some crappies over there last nite.  12fow
Might be getting the 4 wheeler out there this weekend.

If you dont mind me askin what area of the lake where you and how was the ice.
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: Shrades on Dec 08, 2011, 10:27 PM
Did you have any luck on clear Lake. I would like to try it this winter. Much closer then Spirit to me.
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 09, 2011, 08:35 AM
Cigar eyes and some crappies.  Gonna head back out later today.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 09, 2011, 08:42 AM
Was fishing on the little lake. Top inch was milky but the rest was good.  I didnt measure it but there was more than enough for foot traffic im guessing it was around 5.  Should have 6 at least now.  Gonna bring the wheeler out this weekend I'm thinking.  Stay safe out there guys.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bruiser on Dec 09, 2011, 09:17 AM
Sorry for such a noob question, but I've never fished CL before. I'm gonna be headed from Des Moines, where is the "Small Lake" at or where is the best place for the safest ice out there right now? I just want to make sure I'm driving to the right side of the lake.....or is the whole lake locked up right now with 5-6 inches?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: anderson_dc on Dec 09, 2011, 09:27 AM
Little lake is on the west side of Clear Lake.  Take a look at a lake map before you fish there, they did a ton of dredging and there are some pretty crazy contours there.

I can't speak about the thickness of the rest of the lake as i haven't fished Clear this year.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 09, 2011, 09:38 AM
West end of lake by Ventura is the little lake.  East end of lake im sure you will find 2-4 beings it froze over at a later date.  Heres a link to the maps.  1 has the newly Dredged area.  Theres no noob questions on ice shanty btw :)

http://www.iowadnr.gov/idnr/Fishing/WheretoFish/LakesPondsReservoirs/LakeDetails.aspx?lakeCode=CLE17 (http://www.iowadnr.gov/idnr/Fishing/WheretoFish/LakesPondsReservoirs/LakeDetails.aspx?lakeCode=CLE17)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bruiser on Dec 09, 2011, 09:44 AM
So, is it the Ventura marsh that you are considering the little lake? Or just on the East side of that, across the highway. Map is a bit deceiving on whether or not that's all connected. Thanks for the help, I appreciate it.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 09, 2011, 09:45 AM
Marsh is far west on the decieving map that is currently drained.  Mcintosh woods state park is where the landing is located on the little lake.  Find that your golden.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bruiser on Dec 09, 2011, 10:16 AM
Hey if anyone will be on CL on Saturday morning, let me know. I think a buddy and I will be headed up there for our first time this year....well, our first time ice fishing CL also. Will be there Early!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: cpyle1229 on Dec 09, 2011, 11:04 AM
Hey if anyone will be on CL on Saturday morning, let me know. I think a buddy and I will be headed up there for our first time this year....well, our first time ice fishing CL also. Will be there Early!

will be leaving ames at about 0615 saturday morning pick up a buddy along the way and then we will be on the little lake hopefully around 815ish for the rest of the day.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bruiser on Dec 09, 2011, 11:13 AM
We are leaving Des Moines around 5, so should be up there around 7:30. We'll keep an eye out there for ya.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ToddK on Dec 09, 2011, 12:08 PM
CrappieBuster,  Thanks for the info.  I am also am from the Des Moines area (Madison County) and will be heading up that way as well....I gotta scratch this itch, I can't take it!  I don't want to take your hot spots or anything but do you suggest little lake over the main lake?  Also where is a good place to get bait in Clear Lake?

Any info would be great.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 09, 2011, 12:18 PM
Havent fished the main lake as of yet. Definetly move around till you find active biters.  Google Crazy Minnow in Clear Lake for directions to the bait shop.  It's right off the highway.  Farmers beach area on the main lake is usually good this time of year also.  Smaller/slender spoons with a minnowhead or small minnow has been working well. Cant give up any colors though  ;D

Stay safe out there guys
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ToddK on Dec 09, 2011, 01:01 PM
CrappieBuster,

Again, thanks for the information.  Hopefully all of us from Central and Southern Iowa won't be intruding on your lake too much in the next couple of weeks.  The lakes down here are in pretty rough shape and we are getting a little jealous of you guys building good ice up there!

Have you heard anything on the Walleye or Perch bite?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bruiser on Dec 09, 2011, 01:40 PM
Is there perch in CL??
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 09, 2011, 01:58 PM
Is there perch in CL??


Yes but not many good size ones. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bigjohn125 on Dec 09, 2011, 04:18 PM
Thanks for the info.  I'm going to try clear lake next week after I get my Vex.  Can't wait!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Dec 09, 2011, 05:03 PM
If you are fishing CL, I would mainly plan on yellow bass.  You may get a bonus walleye, but its not anything Id count on.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: codewordcs1 on Dec 09, 2011, 06:13 PM
Heading up in the morning should be there at first light. I'll be in a pro tc and my buddy is in a yukon. Stop by and say high. Good luck boys it's finally here. NO MORE WAITING for this guy!!!  :clap: :thumbsup: :woot: :roflmao: ;)2
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 09, 2011, 06:34 PM
The little lake is full of fish.  I drilled 15 holes and all but 2 had fish in them.  Lots of small Yellows but there was some bonus Crappies in the area. Look for suspended fish in 10-13 fow. Have fun guys I have to work this weekend so no fishing for me :(   O solid 5" of good ice
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 09, 2011, 07:13 PM
No problem on the info and theres definetly no problem on intrusion theres 3500 acres there.  Caught a few perch tonite they were smaller 6 being smallest and maybe 8 bein biggest.  No yellows and no keeper eyes.  Had one that was darn close though.  Most were in the 8-10in range.  Fish were being pretty tight lipped though.  Ice was being pretty vocal tonite definetly building out there and about 4 degrees when we pulled off.  If the weather would be colder next next week I think people would start pulling out the wheelhouses.  Hopefully by xmas we will be good to go. ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Derek on Dec 09, 2011, 08:09 PM
I'll probably pop up Monday. I should have gone up this morning instead of going to Elm.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Dec 10, 2011, 02:08 PM
The past couple wks have been awesome ice making weather. A steady cold front with fairly clear skies at night with no snow cover or precipitation. Not too windy expect for a couple days a while back. Great weather for a solid foundation of ice to start the year. We have deserved it after the past few years battling the snow cover.  :)
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: slammin slabs on Dec 10, 2011, 05:16 PM
Cb ganna. Be there sun maybe will see you be in the blue fish trap
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jurrensb on Dec 10, 2011, 05:44 PM
Heading up bright and early tomorrow morning.  Can't wait to get some ice!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: slammin slabs on Dec 10, 2011, 11:57 PM

Well have everything loaded and ready to head over getting up at 5 plan on being at mcintosh at 630 7 hope to see some of you there tight lines fellasx ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: slammin slabs on Dec 11, 2011, 06:17 AM
Well its 618 on my way to cl hope to get into some action  ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Dec 11, 2011, 08:40 AM
In the spring they catch some decent sized bluegills off the ventura grade. Any input out there as to where they might be hiding in the winter?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jurrensb on Dec 11, 2011, 12:27 PM
Sitting on cl right now.  Fishing just slowed way down and the wind is howling today!
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 11, 2011, 07:58 PM
LuckyDog I want to see your Clear Lake Picture from today!! 
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: jorgensend23 on Dec 11, 2011, 08:11 PM
how thick is the ice?? and hows the forecast looking for up there?
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 11, 2011, 09:47 PM
Good ice and lots of fish.  The little lake has 6 or so and the big lake must have 4-5.  Thats a guess on the main lake I haven't drilled a hole out there yet myself.   
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: luckydog35 on Dec 12, 2011, 03:00 AM
Took boys out from 1-4:30 Sunday. What a way to start the season!

198 yellows and an 18" WALLEYE.  :o

We fished in 5 to 7 fow.


(http://i42.tinypic.com/4jp4x3.jpg)
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: Oldbear on Dec 12, 2011, 05:59 AM
You had a fantastic day on the ice.  Probably be a crowd there today .
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Dec 12, 2011, 11:57 AM
Nice work!
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: grandocg on Dec 12, 2011, 02:22 PM
will the weather hurt any of the ice up there this week or is it good to go?
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 12, 2011, 03:05 PM
she might be a little wet but it should be ok for foot traffic.  If you can fish on a cloudy day they are the best!
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 12, 2011, 05:34 PM
Ice should make it easily thru this warm spell was out messin around for a bit on the south shore.  Got some yellows and a walleye that was super close.  Maybe make it out to fish in the sub-tropic temps tommorow.
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: grandocg on Dec 12, 2011, 07:47 PM
Might have to try and make it up that way this weekend since i wont beable to go around here. 
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: buckeye24 on Dec 12, 2011, 10:12 PM
Had a pretty good afternoon on the lake!  ;D

(http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb462/Buckeye245/2011-12-12_18-44-05_864.jpg)
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 12, 2011, 10:28 PM
Thats what Im talking about!!!  Great job!!!!  How Many?
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: buckeye24 on Dec 12, 2011, 10:36 PM
Idk for sure didnt count em. Over 100 tho for sure.
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 13, 2011, 07:43 AM
Idk for sure didnt count em. Over 100 tho for sure.

GOOD JOB!!!! :o
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: grandocg on Dec 13, 2011, 07:58 AM
WOW good job :o
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 13, 2011, 11:51 AM
Keep it up.  We only need 20 more million outta there ;D
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: grandocg on Dec 13, 2011, 12:05 PM
think my brother and i are coming up saturday whats the secret?  where do we get started, bait, lures etc any info would be great! thanks
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: Big Blue on Dec 13, 2011, 01:15 PM
I would go to farmers beach and fish in 5-7 fow.
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 13, 2011, 01:50 PM
You need to find 7 - 10 fow in the little lake or in the channel area.  Run small green jigs with spikes and don't fish one spot for more then 2 min. once you find the magic hole you will know it.
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: grandocg on Dec 13, 2011, 02:17 PM
thanks for the info!! hopefully we make it up. what are the odds of finding some walleyes?  or is it right place right time?
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 13, 2011, 02:44 PM
The 18" eye in that pic had 7 baby yellows in it's stomach so I wish you good luck.  Because its going to be all luck.  If you want I would look on some sharp break lines you might get lucky. Sunset will give you the best odds.  Post your report when you get back.   Thanks
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: dalden on Dec 13, 2011, 09:15 PM
thats what i like to see..pile them yellows up!  ice gonna hold til the weekend?  not looking good in the forecast
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: buckeye24 on Dec 13, 2011, 10:15 PM
Had another great afternoon on the lake! We caught 130 yellows in 3hrs!! At one time they were biting so good I didnt even have any bait on and I was still catching em!!!  ;D
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: luckydog35 on Dec 13, 2011, 10:54 PM
Way to go Buckeye!!!

Sounds like you got those yellows figured out.

Keep it up.

Any hot tips?  ;D
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: buckeye24 on Dec 13, 2011, 11:38 PM
Just keep moving around!  ;)
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: nick858 on Dec 14, 2011, 07:45 AM
What size are the yellows running this year?
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: hotrod on Dec 14, 2011, 08:13 AM
Nice job Buckeye!!!

What were the ice conditions on Tuesday afternoon...hoping to find some ice for the weekend.  Thanks for info, I appreciate it as I live 2 hours away.

Keep catchin' them!
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: igorart7 on Dec 14, 2011, 08:38 AM
Took boys out from 1-4:30 Sunday. What a way to start the season!

198 yellows and an 18" WALLEYE.  :o

We fished in 5 to 7 fow.
My congratulations luckydog35, truly!
It's a great success. Walleye and crappy are my favorites. I'm SO IMPAITIENT to start ice-fishing.
There are many clear lakes on Ontario. Where is yours? If possible send pm with the location.
I could not wait anymore. I drove to Simcoe last night for perch fishing from shore.
I know it sound insane night fishing for perch but...
I've received set of wolfram mormyshkas recently. I caught 25 perch in 1 hour.

Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: buckeye24 on Dec 14, 2011, 08:39 AM
Nice job Buckeye!!!

What were the ice conditions on Tuesday afternoon...hoping to find some ice for the weekend.  Thanks for info, I appreciate it as I live 2 hours away.

Keep catchin' them!

The ice was around 5in.
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: luckydog35 on Dec 14, 2011, 08:46 AM
What size are the yellows running this year?

 The yellows are a little better than last year 9+. There are a bunch of small fish so moving to locate quality fish is required.




What were the ice conditions on Tuesday afternoon...hoping to find some ice for the weekend. 


There has been a load of water on the ice. I would use extreme caution for the near future!

Be safe

Luckydog
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: grandocg on Dec 14, 2011, 01:05 PM
what are the odds of having good ice this weekend?
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 14, 2011, 01:40 PM
The ice is looking good.  Not much water on top and the fishing is still good. My friend is out now and they don't have any water on the ice were he is fishing.
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: grandocg on Dec 14, 2011, 01:50 PM
hope it sticks around I'm ready to go!!
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 14, 2011, 02:28 PM
Yeh ice was in good shape as of yesterday 5+ yet on farmers.  Supposed to get cold again so she will stiffen back up nice.  Just in time to test out the new lazer pro :tipup:
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 14, 2011, 02:43 PM
Yeh ice was in good shape as of yesterday 5+ yet on farmers.  Supposed to get cold again so she will stiffen back up nice.  Just in time to test out the new lazer pro :tipup:

New Lazer???   Good Job Buster.  Thats a sweet auger.  Take good care of your blades remember it is a precision instrument.
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: anderson_dc on Dec 14, 2011, 03:02 PM
You will love that lazer pro CB, it screams through the ice :tipup:
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 14, 2011, 05:15 PM
Yeh I thought since the 3 horse weighs the same as the 2 figured why the heck not..  Old one is gonna get a chippper on it and spend the rest of its life reopening old holes.

Precision instruments are always nice ;D
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 14, 2011, 05:22 PM
Yeh I thought since the 3 horse weights the same as the 2 figured why the heck not..  Old one is gonna get a chippper on it and spend the rest of its life reopening old holes.

Precision instruments are always nice ;D


Great Idea!
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: luckydog35 on Dec 14, 2011, 09:03 PM
WOW  !!!! The fog set in pretty heavy.

Got out with my brother for 2 hours this afternoon fished 1-330. We don't get to do that enough and the fish cooperated too boot.

70 yellows in the bucket. The fish were a little more finicky believe it or not.

Ice was ok, just use common sense around the holes with running water!!

Luckydog
YTD 343 yellows, 1 walleye
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: Derek on Dec 15, 2011, 03:31 AM
WOW  !!!! The fog set in pretty heavy.

Got out with my brother for 2 hours this afternoon fished 1-330. We don't get to do that enough and the fish cooperated too boot.

70 yellows in the bucket. The fish were a little more finicky believe it or not.

Ice was ok, just use common sense around the holes with running water!!

Luckydog
YTD 343 yellows, 1 walleye

I don't mean to pry on you CL locals, but I was there from 9-1 on Tuesday, fished Mcintosh and only caught 22 yellows and not a one of them was even big enough to fillet. We drilled probably 30 holes and only had luck in one spot. Is Mcintosh not the good place to fish? I caught better ones walking off Farmers last year and should have just done that the other day I guess. I did catch one 5" crappie in about 6 fow along with a small perch and a really small eye.

343 = 686 delicious fillets! That is awesome!
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: luckydog35 on Dec 15, 2011, 04:09 AM











I don't mean to pry on you CL locals, but I was there from 9-1 on Tuesday, fished Mcintosh and only caught 22 yellows and not a one of them was even big enough to fillet. We drilled probably 30 holes and only had luck in one spot. Is Mcintosh not the good place to fish? I caught better ones walking off Farmers last year and should have just done that the other day I guess.


It can be tough when you make the trip up. Sorry you didn't get into any good ones.  :(

It's no different when I sit here and drool over the IGL's and have to make decide when,where, how for a day trip.

The whole lake can be good (all about timing and finding fresh fish). I just go to low traffic areas, stay away from crowds when possible.

You should be focusing on the water less than 9' for the most active fish right now. yesterday I worked 6-7'.


Good Luck

Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 15, 2011, 08:01 AM
I would say the same thing Derek. Every time I make a trip out I'll find 3 to 4 different areas (away from the crowd) that are all the same in depth and turn them to Swiss cheese.  There has been some good keepers coming from the little lake so there is fish in there. Try going north just out from the rushes. and then try going west.  I spoke with the crazy minnow also and there has been reports of some walleyes caught over by the grade.  If you go out from farmers and work towards the channel you will find fish.  You cant stop looking until you find them.  The fish, out from farmers roam over the whole west end looking for food.  If you find a good pile in one hole drill 30 more all around it. Good Luck  ;)
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: grandocg on Dec 15, 2011, 02:14 PM
anyone out today? any luck?  hows the ice? 
Title: Re: clear lake fishing currently
Post by: buckeye24 on Dec 15, 2011, 03:14 PM
I totally agree with lucky dog and iaeye. You gotta keep moving until you find them. Once you do, you gotta get after them and stay after them. Good luck everyone and be safe out there.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: slammin slabs on Dec 15, 2011, 10:58 PM
How did the ice fair after the warm spell and the rain anyone attempted to go out was thinking of heading that way sat with the 2 boys to get them in on the yellows they have never caught any and not to many myself
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: codewordcs1 on Dec 15, 2011, 11:01 PM
I was thinking the same thing and also taking the boy out and trying to get on some of them yellows. I did talk to the dnr's office today and was told it should be good for saturday and the rest of my findings indicate it should be A ok. Good luck  ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Buckshots on Dec 16, 2011, 07:25 AM
Hey crappiebuster you have a pm! I oughta fish this lake this winter. I've never tried it.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icey kid on Dec 17, 2011, 05:34 PM
Whats the ice looking like today thinking about making it out tomorrow sunday. thanks
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ScaleHusker on Dec 17, 2011, 05:46 PM
lookin' forward to tomorrow. should be on the ice by 7:30ish should be poppin holes by 7:31ish. good luck to all. I will post a report.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Dec 17, 2011, 07:06 PM
Good Luck Scalehusker!


I went out this evening, tried a new area saw 1 fish in 40-50 holes. Guess that was a bad move.  :'(

Overall the guys I spoke with today reported slow fishing compared to last weekend.

Highlight of the day 2 different friends out fishing caught a keeper WALLEYE. (1- 18" and 1- 22") The 22" was released, nice job!


I will have to try again tommorow.   :)

Good luck
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ed4 on Dec 17, 2011, 08:07 PM
Fished Little lake today from about 11 to 4:30. Caught 2 lil yellows in our first 2 holes we drilled in about 6fow. Then kinda went around and tried different areas amongst all the other shacks around with pretty much the same results. We fished all different depths from 5' up to 12' and got alot of lookers in most holes but very few takers. The ice was at least 6" in all the holes we drilled and it looked good too. Very slippery to walk on and after that wind picked up it made it even worse. Seen one fellow chasing his Quikfish 3 toward the boatramp. Lots of people coming and going throughout the day. Looked busy over at Farmers too. Could see the trucks lined up the gravel road. Seemed like everyone we talked had about the same luck today.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: grandocg on Dec 17, 2011, 08:14 PM
was also there all day with same results.  lots of looker with very few takers. brought home a few but not as much as we hoped for started out on farmers then went over to little lake ice was great every where we went.   
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Shrades on Dec 17, 2011, 10:16 PM
Sounding good from you guys up there can't wait to try in soon.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 18, 2011, 12:43 PM
Gonna go give east of the island a try today try and stay outta this wind.  Hopefully theres enough ice over there for a man.  Beings its close to 50 out :-\
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 18, 2011, 04:09 PM
Buster Luckydog fished it the other day and drilled 50 holes and marked 1 fish.  I hope your luck it better..
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Derek on Dec 18, 2011, 04:42 PM
Had a decent day on farmers today. We brought home 30 over 9" and caught my first walleye. Beings that I wasn't up on my walleye regs, he was CPR'D.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 18, 2011, 04:43 PM
Had a decent day on farmers today. We brought home 30 over 9" and caught my first walleye. Beings that I wasn't up on my walleye regs, he was CPR'D.

I'll have to check that out tomorrow.  Thanks
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 18, 2011, 07:13 PM
There was open water by the island.  Went to farmers and did very well.  Problem is I need to fillet them all now.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Dec 18, 2011, 08:05 PM
Fished the East end of the lake on a classic walleye structure. Only had 3 shorts and 1 perch  :'(

My 10 yr old did have a 35" ish Muskie, we had to the hole 4 times, had my hand in it's gill plate, nose in the hole, broke the 5# leader!!!! :'( :'(

ALMOST had a picture, sorry buddy.


Might have to go back to yellows by the sound of buster's report.  ;)


Good Luck

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 18, 2011, 09:29 PM
Betcha I know what them muskies are eating.........
(http://i42.tinypic.com/293czeb.jpg)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Dec 18, 2011, 09:54 PM
heading out tomorrow and will be there around 3pm, hopefully i can do as good as CrappieBuster....this will be the first time going out this season and cannot wait, heading to the little lake first and see where we go from ther..also wondering what they are biting on? waxies?
TIGHT LINES EVERYONE
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ScaleHusker on Dec 19, 2011, 08:53 AM
got a late start sunday morning fished till 1:30. Had a decent day one guy had a hot pole, he kept a meal of keeper yellows. Cigars, perch, and a crappie or two were caught. minnow heads was working for us, as well as waxies. First time out for all three of us so we were pleased. 4-6'' of ice everywhere we drilled. Saw a lot of people were walking across the lake from farmers, i was suprised.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Shrades on Dec 20, 2011, 11:49 AM
Good to hear. I may venture up there on x-mas day. My kids are with my ex this year so ice fishing a new place sounds good to me. I know after x-mas for sure. is farmers in the smaller lake?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crouch2 on Dec 20, 2011, 08:39 PM
Was there today from 10 til 2  good bite when i figured them out but had to leave to make my sons wrestling meet my first trip up this year was out on farmers 8fw lost a lot at the hole it was a blast on my noodle rod with 2lb test hopefully head up later in the week or sat  (http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/ii128/livonbrushy/cid__1220111354.jpg)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 641cfrank on Dec 21, 2011, 12:08 AM
Finally went out for the first time this season. Walked out from Macintosh to 10fow from 2:30-4:30. Had about 8 inches of ice. I only caught 2 or 3 little crappie and 2 small yellows. Saw a lot of then on the vex and they would follow the bait but couldn't get them to do anything more then look at the it. Heard the guys fishing around me having the same problem  :-\
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bigjohn125 on Dec 21, 2011, 05:14 AM
Are yellow bass good eating?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Dec 21, 2011, 06:37 AM
The yellow bass don't taste bad at all.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MidnightRambler on Dec 21, 2011, 06:53 AM
Most people who've tried both, me included, think yellow bass taste better than white bass.

Like others have said, don't be afraid to keep all the yellow bass you catch. They breed very fast, which is why Clear Lake still has so many of them despite the pressure they get from anglers, and they compete with other fish for food and eat their fry.

Down in southwest Iowa, some small lakes were taken over by yellow bass, so the IDNR had to spend a lot of money killing those lakes off and re-stocking them. That doesn't seem to happen in Clear Lake, but taking one or two hundred yellows out is still not going to hurt anything.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Zugunruhe on Dec 21, 2011, 08:31 AM
Yellow bass are excellent table fare, MUCH better than white bass (and I like white bass).  I got hooked on them when 12 Mile Lake was being overrun by them in 2002/2003.  Lots of fun on an ultralight or through the ice, fillet up like perch and they are aggressive as all get out when schooled up.

As was mentioned above, they are incredibly prolific so I usually keep all that are big enough to fillet.  I wish the midnight biologists would stop spreading them around though, Cornelia is overrun with little ones right now and I've heard people getting them out of Little Wall as well.  Not something you want to "introduce" into any old lake system  >:(
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Shrades on Dec 21, 2011, 09:41 AM
What is the most popular jig to be using? Sounds like minnow heads are a needed add on. I also have heard that small spoons mine be the ticket too. Will be up there on x-mas day.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tgus59 on Dec 21, 2011, 11:23 AM
I've never fished Clear Lake but am planning on heading up there on the 26th, is the ice thick enough for my portable?  I don't need your secret spot but if someone would give me a starting point that would be great!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 21, 2011, 11:35 AM
Any wheelhouses out on the little lake yet?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 641cfrank on Dec 21, 2011, 12:39 PM
No wheelhouses yet... but with 8inches of ice yesterday it shouldn't be to long!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: brittlab on Dec 21, 2011, 05:32 PM
I caught most of mine on gold jigs with white micro nuggies
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Dec 21, 2011, 06:01 PM
Spent 4 hours looking for a new school of yellows to target..... found a couple.  ;D


(http://i41.tinypic.com/34j2789.jpg)


We worked 7- 8 fow with small jigs and spikes.

good luck out there.

YTD 548 yellows, 1 walleye...
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Dec 21, 2011, 07:47 PM
Nice pile of yellows.  I need to get out.  Been to blasted busy at work yet!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Dec 21, 2011, 08:21 PM
heading out tomorrow morning, unsure of what the best time is, I live in Charles City bout 40minutes away, thinking on leaving at 7 be out on the ice and fishing at 8. hopefully the bite is still good!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bigwally on Dec 22, 2011, 09:28 AM
I think that I going to head to clear lake tomorrow moring.  I have never been there and Im not going to ask for the hot spots, but I would like to know where the  arrorators are that everyone always talks about and I hear about people falling in at.  Any ideas to keep me dry?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Derek on Dec 22, 2011, 10:37 AM
I think that I going to head to clear lake tomorrow moring.  I have never been there and Im not going to ask for the hot spots, but I would like to know where the  arrorators are that everyone always talks about and I hear about people falling in at.  Any ideas to keep me dry?

You won't miss them. Just stay away from City beach on the east end.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 22, 2011, 11:22 AM
Where the heck is winter?   >:(
Should be -10 right now....
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: mjmeyer on Dec 22, 2011, 11:43 AM
Quote
Where the heck is winter?   
Should be -10 right now....

Or even 10...
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bigwally on Dec 22, 2011, 12:18 PM
Whats everyone using for jigs and bait on clear lake?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 22, 2011, 12:20 PM
Small jigging spoons with a head small jigs with crappie minnows deadsticked. Can catch them basically on anything.  Hook splitshot about 6 inches up and a well trimmed ice buster works well also.  Heading over there as we speak.  I'll try and leave a few for ya guys ;)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bigwally on Dec 22, 2011, 12:39 PM
Thanks crappiebuster.  Do you ever have luck with waxies?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Dec 22, 2011, 01:14 PM
You can use waxies, spikes, minnows, plastics.  If you find the fish, Clear Lake yellows are as close to 'shooting fish in a barrel' as you will come.  Not saying I havent had bad days, it can certainly happen.  But these fish arent typically as picky as other species.  If youve got waxies but no minnows, that wouldnt stop me from going out.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: russjess on Dec 22, 2011, 09:02 PM
Heading up there Tom any ideas on what part to fish like little lake or the island or anywhere else it would be my first time this year and got the urge if u know what I mean
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Dec 22, 2011, 11:33 PM
ive been fishing on the little lake, been having pretty good luck over there. Ive seen a few people on farmers, its all just up to you im pretty sure you can catch them anywhere but the little lake has been working for me, morning and afternoon
Good luck Russjess
Tight Lines everyone!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 23, 2011, 12:56 PM
Please use extreme caution near the Island there was open water near there a few days ago.  And with less than stellar temps im sure the ice is only a inch or two thick in places.  Farmers had 7 inches after last nite it should be close to 8.  Looks like another warmup is on the way so be safe guys.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bobracing32 on Dec 23, 2011, 01:05 PM
Thinking of bringing the wheelshack out one of these days. Im tired of draging the portable around. What are you opinions on ice thickness to weight ratios?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bigwally on Dec 23, 2011, 08:09 PM
I fished the little part today.  I was out there from 11am to 5pm and ony got a few blue gills.  It was really slow.  I drilled a bunch of holes dropping the locator in and couldnt find much.  I did have a big muskie swim by my holes.  He was only like an inch from the bottom of the ice and wasnt in a hurry to get any where.  That alone was worth the trip!! 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Derek on Dec 23, 2011, 10:28 PM
Thinking of bringing the wheelshack out one of these days. Im tired of draging the portable around. What are you opinions on ice thickness to weight ratios?

I have heard second hand that 7" will support 1500 lbs.

This was from a guy waiting to drag his permy out on Elm a couple weeks ago. I would research other places before taking this advice, I would feel horrible if you went it!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ratherBfishN on Dec 24, 2011, 06:50 AM
Spent 4 hours looking for a new school of yellows to target..... found a couple.  ;D


(http://i41.tinypic.com/34j2789.jpg)


We worked 7- 8 fow with small jigs and spikes.

good luck out there.

YTD 548 yellows, 1 walleye...

Impressive!  Good year so far.  Hope to get out on the ice soon myself!  Love the updates, keep 'em coming!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: rawfish on Dec 24, 2011, 08:34 AM
I'll be out tomorrow. taking the father in law out who doesn't fish much. any tips for fishing clear lake?I would like to just target yellows just to show him a good time. I realize the pressure will be on the rise the next couple days so fishing probably wont be the best. i have the gear just need help on approx where to fish. I hear of farmers and little lake but not  real sure on those locations. any advice would be great.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bigwally on Dec 24, 2011, 09:51 AM
If your on little lake It wont be too hard to figure out where to fish there will be a bunch of shacks out there.  If your going to little lake fish in 7-8 feet of water just out from the weed beds.  The moring and afternoons are when people seem to be having the best luck.  I fished there yesterday and it was slow.  Good luck!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 24, 2011, 01:50 PM
I asked santa for a foot of ice and he let me down. Maybe next year?  Merry Christmas Guys ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ONFISH on Dec 24, 2011, 02:10 PM
Crappiebuster do you know the name of the private pond with houses on it. I think it is the pond just off interstate but before you get into clear lake.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 24, 2011, 02:18 PM
Nope I dont know the name of it. Always wondered if there was fish in it.  Maybe bribe one of the homeowners with a dirty 30 or somethin to fish on it? Worth a shot anyways.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ONFISH on Dec 24, 2011, 02:22 PM
I know a guy that told me to come and fish it. I will be up next weekend. I will let you know what happens
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Dec 24, 2011, 05:57 PM
Supprising the high pressure did not affect the bite that much today. Took my son and couple friends out fished around 4 hours finished with another 127 yellows.

Small jigs, spikes, light line 2# was the key today. green, gold, pink all were good colors today.

We did lose 2 keeper walleyes in the hole and I broke off an unknown big fish, the downfall of light line.  :(


C:\Users\Scholl\Pictures\chris' fish  pics\2011-12-24 12.50.37.jpg



Anybody else have reports?

The little lake isn't the only place to fish.  ;)

Merry Christmas to all!!!

ytd- 675 yellows, 1 walleye
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Dec 24, 2011, 05:59 PM
Sorry forgot to upload.  ::)



(http://i41.tinypic.com/357ps81.jpg)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jjmew on Dec 24, 2011, 07:00 PM
out on farmers today nice mess of yellows 1 keeper walleye lot of dink perch  and eyes my six year old had a blast  ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: brittlab on Dec 24, 2011, 07:34 PM
that's a lot of fillets! nice job.. can't wait to see the tally in march
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Dec 24, 2011, 09:14 PM
out on farmers today nice mess of yellows 1 keeper walleye lot of dink perch  and eyes my six year old had a blast  ;D ;D ;D


That's great!! Always a plus when you can get young kids on a good bite.  :)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: buckeye24 on Dec 25, 2011, 01:06 AM
Did pretty good this afternoon on the lake. Caught a bunch of yellows!  Kept 35 ish! Pretty happy with that!  :)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SpoonieLuv on Dec 25, 2011, 11:55 AM
Luckydog35, what depth are you hitting the yellows at?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Dec 25, 2011, 01:59 PM
Luckydog35, what depth are you hitting the yellows at?


6-7 fow on cloudy days, 8 fow on sunny ones.

good luck
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SpoonieLuv on Dec 25, 2011, 02:10 PM
What's the best place to park for fishing Farmers? Probably be out on Monday, good luck to everyone.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 25, 2011, 02:46 PM
What a weird winter.  Looks like its gonna be holding close to 40 for awhile.  Kinda hard to believe beings its almost Jan.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ed4 on Dec 25, 2011, 03:34 PM
What's the best place to park for fishing Farmers? Probably be out on Monday, good luck to everyone.

We usually park on the side of the gravel road far enough outta everyone elses' way and close to the ice as we can. I know u kinda wanna be there early so you dont have to walk as far down to the ice...especially on the weekends!

What a weird winter.  Looks like its gonna be holding close to 40 for awhile.  Kinda hard to believe beings its almost Jan.

Yea the last 2 years have definately spoiled us for early ice! With no frost in the ground we were able to lay tile all the way up til last week before we called it quits for the year. This has been one of the driest/warmest/busiest  falls/winter  for us and now I got the time off...theres not much ice ! ! !  I have the worst luck ever at Clear though.   LOL ..my average was 1 fish per hour and we spent well over 30 hours a week on it last season. Gonna try to change that ratio this year! As of now its 6 hours spent on Clear...2 dink yellows ! !
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icyclone on Dec 25, 2011, 05:40 PM
I have never been out on Clear Lake and am looking to hit the ice wednesday, I've already figured out that farmers beach is the place to hit, are there any specific areas of it that anybody would be willing to suggest?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ASATMillerbluegill on Dec 26, 2011, 09:28 AM
What parking lot should I park at to fish Clear Lake? Thanks
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: walleyewinder23 on Dec 26, 2011, 10:30 AM
Sorry forgot to upload.  ::)



(http://i41.tinypic.com/357ps81.jpg)

Holy crap! That is a lot of yellows!!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 641cfrank on Dec 26, 2011, 06:28 PM
So you guys that have fished the last couple days... hows the ice? is it stilll around 8 inches or has it gained a little more?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: schuttlr on Dec 26, 2011, 08:19 PM
i was there last saturday and it was around 8 inches at farmers.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bobracing32 on Dec 27, 2011, 07:45 AM
I had 8 inches last night at farmers.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bigwally on Dec 27, 2011, 11:09 AM
So I have a dumb question.  When people talk about farmers, is that the same place as little lake?  Or where is farmers?  I'm not real familiar with Clear Lake.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 2 MAN ESKIMO on Dec 27, 2011, 11:31 AM
heading up tomorrow morning with my daughter and brother first time to clear lake cant wait  :)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 27, 2011, 12:02 PM
40's the rest of the week and darn near 50 on Saturday.  Season is pretty much already shelled.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: BigRock947 on Dec 27, 2011, 04:03 PM
40's the rest of the week and darn near 50 on Saturday.  Season is pretty much already shelled.

CB: Do you think so???...the overnights are getting below freezing...
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ASATMillerbluegill on Dec 27, 2011, 04:42 PM
Below freezing every night

http://www.weather.com/weather/tenday/USIA0160
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: walleyes4*u on Dec 27, 2011, 04:46 PM
40's the rest of the week and darn near 50 on Saturday.  Season is pretty much already shelled.

report back on ice conditions.....son and I was planning on a thursday trip  ;)
Title: Clear lake
Post by: Kevin23 on Dec 27, 2011, 05:27 PM
Can anyone give me some info on where to stay/fish at clear lake? My buddy, my father and I are thinking about making a trip up there and staying a couple days. We have portables, but will be muleing it. I have no clue where to even look at fishing there.

Can return the favor for any fishing spots around the QC area.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 27, 2011, 05:35 PM
Its not trashed for foot/atv traffic but its nice fishing out of a wheelhouse and driving out to your spot.  Also if it gets a few degrees below freezing everynite that aint gonna refrreeze all that stuff it melted when its 45 degrees sunny and windy during the day. It's not looking good its marginal at best.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: walleyes4*u on Dec 27, 2011, 05:45 PM
Its not trashed for foot/atv traffic but its nice fishing out of a wheelhouse and driving out to your spot.  Also if it gets a few degrees below freezing everynite that aint gonna refrreeze all that stuff it melted when its 45 degrees sunny and windy during the day. It's not looking good its marginal at best.

so you think it would be best to wait and and not be on it thursday
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 27, 2011, 06:20 PM
 You will have 5 inches of solid ice under you and a few inches of junk even Thursday I'd imagine.  Stay off anything east of dodges point though ice was iffy when it all formed awhile back im sure its not the best now. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: walleyes4*u on Dec 27, 2011, 06:23 PM
You will have 5 inches of solid ice under you and a few inches of junk even Thursday I'd imagine.

Thanx......
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 641cfrank on Dec 27, 2011, 06:45 PM
I was out on the little lake again today and didn't have a whole lot of luck... the ice was still good and its spos to be fairly cold tonight so hopefully that will keep the ice good through this warm spell.

There was a 4x8 shack that someone had pulled out and it went though the ice :'( two guys spent the afternoon getting it out. I'm not sure why it went through but when you guys go out on the little lake be cautious of a couple areas that might only have a 1/2 inch of ice on it... wouldn't want to walk into that.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 27, 2011, 06:49 PM
Get a little bit of water on the ice on a sunny day and it gets windy it can open up old holes and make giant holes.  Be careful out there guys make sure you at least have a set of rescue picks.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bigwally on Dec 27, 2011, 06:57 PM
Well this doesnt sound good I was planning on taking off work thursday to come to clear lake and fish.  Is there really spots with only 1/2 inch on little lake?  I was there last Friday and it was good thick ice at least 8" I have a hard time believing that there is only a 1/2 in spots.  Guess  my plans might change if I dont hear better news. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: walleyes4*u on Dec 27, 2011, 07:07 PM
I have a hard time believing that there is only a 1/2 in spots.  Guess  my plans might change if I dont hear better news.

He is probably talking about where the shelter went thru and where they got it out................
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 641cfrank on Dec 27, 2011, 07:27 PM
He is probably talking about where the shelter went thru and where they got it out................
Yes, that is what I meant. That place and there was one other spot that was like 8'x8' that had standing water but all around it was still 8 inches thick. The only way there would be a 1/2 inch is if it freezes in those spots tonight. And if it makes you feel any better, I was was planning to go out Thursday after I get off work ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: walleyes4*u on Dec 27, 2011, 07:50 PM
heard farmers has 10" as of this morning.....
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bigwally on Dec 27, 2011, 09:00 PM
ok, thanks for clearing that up for you, scared me for a min.. :woot:  I just might see you out there on thur then!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: walleyes4*u on Dec 27, 2011, 09:03 PM
If we are, we will have red eskimo QF2
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bigwally on Dec 27, 2011, 09:12 PM
I will keep an eye out for it.  I have a red QF3 and I will be on little lake.  So far all my friends have that work problem and cant go but I still plan to as of now.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: walleyes4*u on Dec 27, 2011, 09:18 PM
will be on farmers......
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jumbo chaser on Dec 27, 2011, 09:20 PM
never been to clear lake go to boji alot . Four of us heading there on 6th hope the ice is still good dont think we are not going to have a season where we are from . You locals have any advice for us . Pm me please. Thanks
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bigwally on Dec 27, 2011, 09:24 PM
what part of the lake is farmers?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jumbo chaser on Dec 27, 2011, 09:29 PM
hope to get up there me and four buddies are planing a trip there on 6th .Hope you have good ice then this weather is crazy.Any advice for us please PM me thanks  ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bobracing32 on Dec 27, 2011, 09:47 PM
Farmers is the south west corner of the big lake. Theres really only one way to get, which is a dead road on the south side of the lake. Ive seen guys walk from macintosh, however its a long walk. I was on farmers tonight with a good eight inches. Alot of open water around the lake. Stay safe especially with the weeks weather.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: buckeye24 on Dec 27, 2011, 11:43 PM
I did fairly well tonight! Caught 3/4 of a bucket tonight and a bucket full on monday morning!!!   ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Dec 28, 2011, 06:33 AM
I did fairly well tonight! Caught 3/4 of a bucket tonight and a bucket full on monday morning!!!   ;D


That's great.

Why don't you give a few tips for us fellow fishermen. What size bucket are you using? Could be an ice cream bucket and that is just not impressive.   :P
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bigwally on Dec 28, 2011, 06:36 AM
Also what did you put in the bucket, gills? Yellows, sharks?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bobracing32 on Dec 28, 2011, 07:18 AM
I had half a bucket....... of minnows last night.  Ive seen a few photos of guys catching that many. However the lake is hit and miss. One day a guy could catch only two, or maybe a hundred.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bigwally on Dec 28, 2011, 07:33 AM
Those of you that were out there lasy night how was the ice?  I am wanting to be on the ice tomorrow morning and plan to get on the ice when its still a little dark.  I just want to make sure the ice is still good and I can trust that Im not going walk on a soft spot or open water.  I am planning on going to the little lake part.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Dec 28, 2011, 07:41 AM
I always hate to post ice conditions ( don't want to be responsible). If your not sure of conditions I would wait till sunrise.

I will tell my son is out fishing right now. they just got a 24"er.................CAT FISH.    ;D ;D

Be safe!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tyke on Dec 28, 2011, 08:52 AM
Don't give up hope yet, my cousin who has past away now always had a saying (When the days begin to lengthen the cold begins to strengthen). Seems to hold true.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bigwally on Dec 28, 2011, 08:57 AM
I always hate to post ice conditions ( don't want to be responsible). If your not sure of conditions I would wait till sunrise.

I will tell my son is out fishing right now. they just got a 24"er.................CAT FISH.    ;D ;D

Be safe!

Nice!!  What did he catch the cat on?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: buckeye24 on Dec 28, 2011, 09:12 AM
Also what did you put in the bucket, gills? Yellows, sharks?

Sorry forgot to put it in there! I caught 3/4 of bucket of yellows!

(http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb462/Buckeye245/2011-12-26_11-07-58_535.jpg)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Dec 28, 2011, 09:27 AM
HOW BIG OF BUCKET!!! ;D ;D ;D

sorry couldn't resist.  :)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Dec 28, 2011, 10:20 AM
Some computer savvy person should post a map of Clear Lake labeling Farmers and the little lake.  Its not that hard if you see a map.  And I cant imagine if you are up moving around drilling tons of holes that you cant end up with a minimum of 15 fish.  If you are just drilling two holes and sitting in a shack, then you arent yellow bass fishing.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ice-aholic on Dec 28, 2011, 11:06 AM
have some friends on little lake right now said they caught one yellow and little crappie but it is pretty dead, they said they are drilling a lot of holes and marking a lot of fish but they won't bite
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 641cfrank on Dec 28, 2011, 11:16 AM
(http://i1110.photobucket.com/albums/h459/641cfrank/ClearLake.gif)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bigwally on Dec 28, 2011, 11:36 AM
Sorry forgot to put it in there! I caught 3/4 of bucket of yellows!

(http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb462/Buckeye245/2011-12-26_11-07-58_535.jpg)

Wow thats a big bucket!!  Nice work.  What where they biting on?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Dec 28, 2011, 11:56 AM
Thinking about heading out to little lake tonight..hopefully the ice holds up for this upcoming week I want to bring the wheel house out but the damn weather!! just get cold and snowy already, what the hell is mother nature waiting for?!?!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 28, 2011, 12:06 PM
She just cant seem to get it outta 1st gear.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Dec 28, 2011, 12:08 PM
that is definitely true although i heard thers going to  be some snow coming around the 1st. but not very much, hopefully there is something in the forecast....something has to change
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Derek on Dec 28, 2011, 12:31 PM
Im very confused as to why people still insist on fishing little lake and complain about how bad their fishing experience was a Clear? People are constantly asking where the good fishing is and they get an honest response from iaeye or crappiebuster or luckydog. When some one says, "Big Lake in 6-7 fow" you should probably take their advice and absorb as much as possible. Just my $.02 worth
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 28, 2011, 06:32 PM
Ice is taking a pretty good hit guys.  Be careful out there! Walked right by 3x3 ft hole of open water with bubbles coming outta it today.  Carp?  Methane? I have no clue it was kinda freaky tho.   
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bigwally on Dec 28, 2011, 06:37 PM
What part of the lake was that on?  I was planning to be on little lake around 7am.  Not sure I wanna mess with ice like that though.  How thick was the ice?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 28, 2011, 06:44 PM
I was on the west end of the little lake.  Most ice I found was around 6, found a few spots that were around 4.  Lotsa dink yellows on that end 5 ft thick at times.  Gonna go back to farmers tommorow.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Dec 28, 2011, 07:21 PM
Im very confused as to why people still insist on fishing little lake and complain about how bad their fishing experience was a Clear? People are constantly asking where the good fishing is and they get an honest response from iaeye or crappiebuster or luckydog. When some one says, "Big Lake in 6-7 fow" you should probably take their advice and absorb as much as possible. Just my $.02 worth

Thanks for 2 cents.

I do give honest reports, no I do not give up exact locations. That is part of fishing (finding them).

Even my stubborn teenage son can listen. He iced 96 yellows this morning.

Here's a bonus from this morning.



(http://i40.tinypic.com/73l9nn.jpg)


Ice is changing rapidly be care.

good luck

YTD 901 yellows, 1 walleye





Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Dec 28, 2011, 08:02 PM
Im very confused as to why people still insist on fishing little lake and complain about how bad their fishing experience was a Clear? People are constantly asking where the good fishing is and they get an honest response from iaeye or crappiebuster or luckydog. When some one says, "Big Lake in 6-7 fow" you should probably take their advice and absorb as much as possible. Just my $.02 worth

This is very true.  7fow.  Id recommend drilling 50 holes, 10 feet apart before you even start fishing.  Leave your bucket and ice shack at home.  A flasher and a rod and just keep moving.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Dec 28, 2011, 08:09 PM
Anybody out on little lake this evening? Heading ther tomorrow morning depending what the ice reports are
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icyclone on Dec 28, 2011, 09:06 PM
had a great afternoon on the ice today, thankyou gentleman, with your advice I caught over 50 yellows and kept 40, followed your tips on farmers and the depth and had a great time doin, thanks guys for makin my first trip on Clear Lake more successful than I cudda hoped for  :)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 28, 2011, 09:37 PM
Mmmmmm cold water kitty.  I have a spot over there around ice out early-mid march you can catch 5lbers hand over fist.  Theyre good vittles thru the ice.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jumbo chaser on Dec 28, 2011, 10:15 PM
Great catch guys  ;D Hope you have ice on the 6th of january  planning a trip up there . Thanks for cool pics least someone has ice . If you could keep me aware of condition I would greaty aprecitate it . THanks guys Pm me @[email protected] Thanks again ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishndude on Dec 29, 2011, 06:24 AM
Fished from 2 till 430 yesterday and had a good time again. Iced 50 or 60 yellows and doz or so walleyes all cprd. ( only one keeper )
Was amazed at how the wind opened the main lake back up and the channel to little lake. Be careful out there guys.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MidnightRambler on Dec 29, 2011, 08:11 AM
Thanks for the updates on ice conditions up that way.

If there is open water in spots on Clear Lake today, the forecast for the next few days--rain and highs in the mid-forties today, lows at or above freezing tonight, highs in the upper thirties tomorrow, with wind and snow flurries Saturday, Sunday, and Monday--makes me think things might get a little sketchy for ice-fishing Clear Lake this weekend.

That's not good, but hopefully no one makes a trip from one, two, or three hours away, only to find bad ice waiting for them this weekend.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IowaHardWater on Dec 29, 2011, 10:35 AM
Hey guys/gals

Just curious on ice thickness up at Clear Lake.  I got a buddy hooked on ice fishing last year and he is coming to town this weekend (Grimes).  Wanting to see if you guys think the ice is still going to be good by then?  Sounds like it should, but I haven't been on Clear Lake ice fishing at all in my life.

Thanks!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: walleyes4*u on Dec 29, 2011, 10:48 AM
Hey guys/gals

Just curious on ice thickness up at Clear Lake.  I got a buddy hooked on ice fishing last year and he is coming to town this weekend (Grimes).  Wanting to see if you guys think the ice is still going to be good by then?  Sounds like it should, but I haven't been on Clear Lake ice fishing at all in my life.

Thanks!

It sounds like it should be good by weekend???????????? With warm weather and chance of rain and wind......I would ask this question come friday afternoon..Reports of open water in spots in the ice... Forcast for Clear Lake 41* today with chance rain/snow over night with a low of 30* tonight....high of 40* friday with low of 28* friday night....high of 46* and WINDY saturday.........I feel I will wait for safer ice.....
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IowaHardWater on Dec 29, 2011, 11:07 AM
I swore I had read 8" on Little Lake somewhere, figured it would be fine.  But, I hadn't checked the forcast to see rain.  That is going to put a damper on my weekend.  Oh well, I guess I'll have to find something else to do!

Thanks for the input!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Dec 29, 2011, 11:17 AM
Had a friend brake through (crotch deep) in the weeds coming off last nite       Be careful out there
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Derek on Dec 29, 2011, 12:10 PM
Had a friend brake through (crotch deep) in the weeds coming off last nite       Be careful out there

Oh! That sucks! Which part of the lake?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 29, 2011, 12:31 PM
I would guess that would be off from the pumphouse.  Beings thats where you walk thru the rushes.

If the channel is open like reports say and we get a strong west wind farmers could open up  pretty quick.  If peoples shacks and people are going in I'd exercise extreme caution.  Ice picks,arctic armor,rescue rope,cell phone.  The lake has taken quite a few people over the last 10 yrs so keep that in mind.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Dec 29, 2011, 01:31 PM
correct on the pump house area
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MidnightRambler on Dec 29, 2011, 02:04 PM
Holy carp--fifty degrees and windy on Saturday in Clear Lake!  ??? That changed, and not for the better, since this morning.

I am afraid the yellow bass party will be on hold for a few days.  :-\
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bigwally on Dec 29, 2011, 03:23 PM
I just got off little lake.  There does seem to be around 6 inches of ice right now.  But when I got on the ice this morning there wasnt any standing water, and by the time we left there was puddles and the top 1/4 inch was soft/slushy.  I'm not sure I would want to mess with it this weekend.  But heck as warm as its gonna be a swim might be kinda nice (joking). 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Dec 29, 2011, 03:56 PM
Went to the little lake this A.M did pretty well id say. caught 2 good keeper yellows and some other yellows that were to small then caught about 12 crappie and 2 little eye... in all me and a buddy caught around 20 fish...could have done better but just stayed in one area...was pretty windy also and i havent seen that many portable shacks on clear lake in a long time. id rather have them be wheelhouses but i dont think thats going to happen for awhile. ??? Also on my way home stopped at Fin and Feather...waste of time and its way to shallow. quit after half hour.
good luck and stay safe out there! its getting soft and slushy...
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icyclone on Dec 29, 2011, 04:39 PM
where on the lake is the pumphouse? anywhere near farmers?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Derek on Dec 29, 2011, 04:55 PM
Straight across the lake to the north
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishndude on Dec 29, 2011, 05:10 PM
Channel to little lake was definately open yesterday. Ice out front and on the little lake was still good. Dont know about today though. Scary, b careful!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 29, 2011, 06:55 PM
Still 8 inches of ice east of the channel off farmers it is not the best of ice though.  Prettly slow fishing today lotsa markers but not many biters.  Threw back a skinny 14 and that was the highlight.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: cyclone on Dec 29, 2011, 09:17 PM
Still good ice off of farmers, but that open water looks to be getting closer and closer  ???............Me and my buddy had really good luck today on the yellows, brought 34 home, probably caught 50 ish plus numberous 13 inch eyes as well as a nice kicker 12" crappie (first fish of the day)........best time I have had on Clear lake in a LONG time.  We were on the eastern edge of the "bunch", but by the time all the late arrivers came, we were actually in the middle.  Seemed like lots of folks were catching fish.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 641cfrank on Dec 29, 2011, 10:55 PM
I had a decent afternoon on farmers... took home a dozen yellows, threw back a dozen more plus two small crappie, three small eyes, and a little perch. There was quite a few people out and it was a fun, warm evening. Ice is still pretty good there, but it is getting slushy on top.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Dec 30, 2011, 05:26 AM
Time to get out the BOAT!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Dec 30, 2011, 05:47 AM
 With the rain today and the windy weekend expected the ice will really open up. Temps near 50 tomorrow. I see they turned the aerators off so the ice can refreeze.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: blufloyd on Dec 30, 2011, 06:00 AM
The aerators seem silly at 40 mph wind.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: cyclones30 on Dec 30, 2011, 09:04 AM
Been raining/snowing/sleeting all morning, I was on a farm pond yesterday in the area and I won't go back to it after this morning's weather and tomorrow's forecast.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: cyclone on Dec 30, 2011, 11:38 AM
I did well with Minnows, what is everyone else using?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bigwally on Dec 30, 2011, 11:58 AM
I had crappie hitting waxies, had minnow head one right next to it but they were hitting the wax worm.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ed4 on Dec 30, 2011, 12:56 PM
We went out yesterday and had a good day getting around 30 yellows and numerous 8-10" walleyes and a few lil perch. We fished Farmers in around 8fow. Started out windy and we tried setting the shack up but ended up just hole hopping and fishing with the tarp down, just sitting in the seats of the shack. We had about 10 holes we just kept cycling through all day pulling 1 or 2 yellows out each time then you had to move to a different hole. We favored the east side of the crowd. Lots of people out and ALOT of holes being drilled yesterday. Seen a guy off in the distance pull out a pretty big catfish! I bet that was a nice fight! I also lost a really nice eye at the hole thanks to the transducer cable!  :'(


(http://img192.imageshack.us/img192/2074/downsizeiq.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/192/downsizeiq.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 30, 2011, 05:28 PM
Extended forecast is a joke highs in the lower 30s for a break but extremly windy and then back up to mid 40's .  In a week or two the ice prolly wont be fishable.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Catchaser on Dec 30, 2011, 06:48 PM
I finally made it up today. Didn't stay long. We caught a few yellows. The lake was plenty wet today.
The wet ice was a lot better than we have in Boone. We're down to 2" of slush.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: cyclone on Dec 30, 2011, 07:00 PM
its crazy.......we are supposed to have 0 deg temps right now and 18" of ice........its going to be January for freaking sakes
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: huntaholic on Dec 30, 2011, 07:26 PM
Extended forecast is a joke highs in the lower 30s for a break but extremly windy and then back up to mid 40's .  In a week or two the ice prolly wont be fishable.
When has the weatherman ever been right? Heck at one point the forecast for this week said it wasn't supposed to get over freezing. Two days later it says 40-50 degrees! I could probably even be the weatherman. ::) The least they could do is lie to us and say its going to get cold to get me excited for a little bit >:(
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: BigRock947 on Dec 30, 2011, 09:18 PM
When has the weatherman ever been right? Heck at one point the forecast for this week said it wasn't supposed to get over freezing. Two days later it says 40-50 degrees! I could probably even be the weatherman. ::) The least they could do is lie to us and say its going to get cold to get me excited for a little bit >:(

I'm going with the glass half full. The pattern that gave us one the mildest Decembers I'd changing and January is going to go cold...
 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 31, 2011, 11:45 AM
By the time this wind quits blowing the 2 aerators will become 1 giant one.  Get out the boat!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 641cfrank on Dec 31, 2011, 02:39 PM
You guys gotta think positive!!! this week doesn't look to bad... at least not until Friday and Saturday, but that's beside the point... :unsure:
(http://i1110.photobucket.com/albums/h459/641cfrank/906.jpg)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Catchaser on Dec 31, 2011, 07:48 PM
We were on Farmers Friday. was the open water to the NW from the aerators?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: anderson_dc on Dec 31, 2011, 08:02 PM
The NE you mean ???
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: squ1rr31_ on Dec 31, 2011, 08:17 PM
Myself and several buddies went to Clear Weds night and camped on the boat ramp waiting for morning, got bothered by a few cops, only one with an attitude. Thursday we started at McIntosh, what a joke that was. Nothing but 4 inch yellows, we packed up and drove to Farmers and started hitting them immediately. Each hole was usually one fish, but there were plenty to fish out of, that lake is swiss cheese. By the end of the day we had around 20 yellows and one 15.5" walleye. Overall a good time!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: goosehntr69 on Dec 31, 2011, 08:35 PM
Two buddies and I caught a bucket full at farmers today.  Didn't have to move too much.  They weren't hot and heavy,but steady most of the day.  Still around five or six inches of good ice.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 01, 2012, 10:39 AM
Ice is breaking apart on pits in Mason City from this wind.  I kinda hate to imagine what its doing over on Clear Lake.  May have to go check it out after a bit and shed a tear I imagine.

Probably have to start over making the ice. :-\
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icyclone on Jan 01, 2012, 10:52 AM
planning to go out this afternoon, temps look good but the winds are worrying me, its an hour drive up, anybody closer have eyes on the ice on farmer's beach?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 01, 2012, 11:21 AM
Right now at clear lake winds wnw sustained at 41mph gusts to 51.  Dont think ive fished in winds above 25.  If ya go I wouldnt bring anything out that could fly away into the aerator ;D.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jjmew on Jan 01, 2012, 11:23 AM
alot of under currant yesterday lost a inch in the mornin alot of open water to the east of farmers
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bobracing32 on Jan 01, 2012, 01:42 PM
Just drove around the lake and it looks terrible. Aereators opened up alot more in the last two days. You can see open spots of water along the shore for no reason. I would not fish the lake, especially in this wind.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 01, 2012, 01:51 PM
Yep I looked at the ice with binoculars looks like theres several random small holes maybe 5x5 in the ice out there.  The edges are all opening up.  Basically its one big bobbing ice sheet right now. I would not be on it at all especially after dark.  Stick a fork in it she's done! :(
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: BigRock947 on Jan 01, 2012, 02:11 PM
I hope things get turned around so we all get some ice. Only time I've been out this season was up on clear lake and I was hoping to go again...thanks for the reports guys.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MidnightRambler on Jan 01, 2012, 02:14 PM
On top of the damage already done in Clear Lake, the wind gusts are supposed to stay above 40 MPH through tomorrow night. That is really going to rip the remaining ice up, and prevent the cold temps from doing much to re-freeze anything. Then temps are supposed to get up in the forties again later in the week.

In other words, I wouldn't be planning an ice-fishing trip to Clear Lake for next week.  :'(

EDIT: The Clear Lake live view camera of the lake (updated every five minutes) makes it look like the east end of the lake is pretty much all open: http://www.clearlakeiowa.com/live_eye.shtml
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: walleyes4*u on Jan 01, 2012, 02:21 PM
Get the boats out...............H**l the Waterloo Water Ski Team was out yesterday waterskiing  :o :o :o
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 01, 2012, 02:40 PM
Time to head north!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bobracing32 on Jan 01, 2012, 03:21 PM
Anyone have any reports of lakes up north. Looks like we will be heading up there.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MidnightRambler on Jan 01, 2012, 03:24 PM
We may have to drive quite a ways north.  :-\

Sounds like the ice on lakes in the southern half or third of Minnesota is taking just as much of a beating as Clear Lake is today.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: walleyes4*u on Jan 01, 2012, 04:06 PM
Probably Leech on up.....
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 2 MAN ESKIMO on Jan 01, 2012, 05:07 PM
Heading up to the winnie lake area in two weeks at least i got one day of fishing on clear lake to knock the rust off before i head north for a 7 day vacation  ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: number905 on Jan 01, 2012, 06:05 PM
Anyone attempt it today??
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icyclone on Jan 01, 2012, 06:46 PM
i went out tonight, was downright nasty but farmers wasnt in too bad of shape, had 6 inches of good ice under us and new ice was forming under us all the time, the open water is quite a ways east of farmers and never seemed too threatening, fishing was ok, never hot but the yellows kept bitin just didnt stay out too long because the wind was just too damn nasty
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: adam on Jan 01, 2012, 07:18 PM
Anybody heading to farmers tomorrow? I have the day off work and am kicking it around.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icyclone on Jan 01, 2012, 08:25 PM
after today's trip i might be back out, but itl depend on how much the wind goes down, could hardly tell if what was wind and what was bites
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: adam on Jan 01, 2012, 08:28 PM
I hear ya on the wind! Gusts of 50 and over are a little much. I would be happy if tomorrow is half that I could manage 25mph.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icyclone on Jan 01, 2012, 08:30 PM
yeah, after a couple hours in the 50 mph, 25 would be a walk in the park, the ice was still pretty sturdy today, so i have high hopes for tomoro
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: russjess on Jan 01, 2012, 08:31 PM
Ill be up there in the morning anywhere not to go I'm thinking about farmers but don't want to fall in
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icyclone on Jan 01, 2012, 08:36 PM
i would avoid the eastern body of the lake, but farmers is good and there were some huts on the northern shoreline near where little lake connects
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Jan 01, 2012, 11:17 PM
anyone have any reports of the little lake? just curious wanting to venture out but i dont want to get to excited and headout and then fall in. Looking around the Charles City area for some farm ponds to fish but not having to much luck....Will have to see what this weeks weather forecast will be like...hopefully this new year will bring us cold weather and SNOW!!!!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Jan 02, 2012, 12:49 AM
Time to head north!

Ya better answer your phone!!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: adam on Jan 02, 2012, 07:25 AM
On my way to farmers its gonna be a chilly one hole hopping today. I will report back with ice conditions and report 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: adam on Jan 02, 2012, 07:04 PM
There is still a good 6 inches of ice on farmers. I had my best luck early and.ended up leaving around 11:30. Spikes and tungsten was my go-to in 8 fow. I can't wait to fish it some in a little less wind.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MidnightRambler on Jan 02, 2012, 07:35 PM
Thanks for the update. It helps people know whether a trip to CL is worth it or not.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Jan 02, 2012, 07:40 PM
hey thanks for the update, did you see anyone over on the little lake? been thinking about it but still unsure... colder temps are going to be here next week it looks like to stay....(we can hope). Hoping to fish some ponds around the Charles City area here in a couple days. The ice open water should be re-freezing with these colder temps tonight and the wind dying down should make ice making a lot easier. lets hope for the best!
tight lines
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: adam on Jan 02, 2012, 07:51 PM
I did not see anyone on little lake. If there were there probably weren't many. I should also add that there was a lot of open water to the east of farmers but as of this morning it was a safe distance away.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nick858 on Jan 02, 2012, 07:52 PM
My forecast shows 38 Weds, 49 Thurs, 48 Fri, and still above freezing through Sunday.  Where did you see the cold temps forecasted?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Jan 02, 2012, 07:58 PM
It was on the weather channel I believe. i may be wrong
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jumbo chaser on Jan 02, 2012, 08:15 PM
My weather report for clear lake iowa said 0 for tonight there
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: codewordcs1 on Jan 02, 2012, 08:57 PM
0 is a good ice making temp  ;D too bad we couldn't get a week with those temps.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 641cfrank on Jan 02, 2012, 10:39 PM
My forecast shows 38 Weds, 49 Thurs, 48 Fri, and still above freezing through Sunday.  Where did you see the cold temps forecasted?
The local forcast shows a high of 43 both Thursday and Friday, hopefully that's a little closer then 48 and 49. And the nights are spos to stay cold!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icyclone on Jan 03, 2012, 02:31 PM
I'm thinkin bout makin a trip out tomoro or thursday, anybody havin any luck recently?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jumbo chaser on Jan 03, 2012, 07:28 PM
Going up there on friday hows ice conditions up there? I was wondering if atvs are being used up there?????????????????Pm me please???????????????
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: number905 on Jan 03, 2012, 07:39 PM
I went up there yesterday and the ice on farmers was about 6-7 inches thick. We got into town around 11 and only saw 2 shacks on the Little Lake. Didnt see any ATVs. There is a lot of open water in general, but farmers was fine and we had no hesitations being on the ice.

Best bite was from 3-5 for us in 8 FOW. Caught around 20 yellows all on minnows and tungsten jigs hooked through the tail.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jumbo chaser on Jan 03, 2012, 07:43 PM
Anyone one want to meet up there  ;D do you no any good cheap motels up there? close to lake?If you do PM me Show me around up there and I will show you around here if we ever get ice LOL ??????? :'(
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jumbo chaser on Jan 03, 2012, 07:58 PM
Thanks for advice think ice will be good by friday? the 6 th? Or should we go north west towards devils lake? Just dont want to go there yet hoping for ice down here still .If we get ice down here I have many good spots I would invite any of you guys to go with us last year was a blast best bluegill 12.25" and crappie 15.5" and bass 2-6 lbs perch 12-14" within 30 miles of my house . Hate this weather!!!!!!! Thinking cold thoughts!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: goosehntr69 on Jan 03, 2012, 09:00 PM
Just wondering where down here is.  Forecast is for mid 40's the middle of the week here.(30 miles SW of Clear Lake)  as long as it doesn't get too windy,I think farmers beach should be ok yet.

There are a couple of motels on the east end of the lake. Super 8 or comfort inn? And the silver boot I think.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Jan 04, 2012, 03:46 AM
Crappiebuster and I are heading North to get our fill of walleyes for the year ;D Will be thinking of ya all back here :P
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Jan 04, 2012, 08:02 AM
I'm heading back out after being away for a week. Hope i can find a couple fish.  ;)

I'll report back tonight so hang tight ya'll.  ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 04, 2012, 08:20 AM
"Northward ho!"
No that wasnt lyrics from a rap song. ;D

Think I may try and make it out today also.  Hopefully not go swimming
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: cyclones30 on Jan 04, 2012, 01:51 PM
Looks like we might be in for some "better" weather with some changes they're forecasting for the rest of winter.

What we have now.........

(http://vortex.accuweather.com/adc2004/pub/includes/columns/newsstory/2012/400x266_01041642_typicallaninawinter(nam).jpg)


What they're expecting.......

(http://vortex.accuweather.com/adc2004/pub/includes/columns/newsstory/2012/400x266_01041745_patternchangenxwk.jpg)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: LunkerPlunker on Jan 04, 2012, 02:34 PM
lets hope that happens... Everyday i drive down to the local lake just to be disappointed. The ice is to thin to walk on and yet it isn't melted enough for open water fishing. My gear is gathering dust. Lets hope it'll be gathering fish instead  :P
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Derek on Jan 04, 2012, 03:21 PM
Looks like we might be in for some "better" weather with some changes they're forecasting for the rest of winter.

What we have now.........

(http://vortex.accuweather.com/adc2004/pub/includes/columns/newsstory/2012/400x266_01041642_typicallaninawinter(nam).jpg)


What they're expecting.......

(http://vortex.accuweather.com/adc2004/pub/includes/columns/newsstory/2012/400x266_01041745_patternchangenxwk.jpg)

This whole La Nina thing has me screwed up. Back in October they predicted this, but said VERY cold and little snow. I guess they were half way right with the little snow part...

Anyways... Is the ice ok to walk out on farmers? I believe the ice is good, just wondering about the first few feet. Gonna hit the ice early in the am since I didnt feel like getting up this morning.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Jan 04, 2012, 05:15 PM
First time out in a week, fished from 10-2:30.

fished out on farmers I would say a solid 8" of ice. This is probably the safest place to fish right now. Where I was fishing last week might have 3" right now.  :o

Fished with small jigs and spikes, fish really didn't want cutbait for me.

kept 73 yellows and threw back at least that many dinks.

Going to be crowded out there for awhile till the ice improves.

PLAY NICE WITH EACH OTHER.  ;D

ytd 974 yellows, 1 walleye
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crappie43 on Jan 04, 2012, 07:39 PM
i will be out tomorrow and friday! hoping to fill the freezer! any suggestions...i have heard of anywhere from 4 ft to 10ft...i will be in a clam nanook in all camp rocking my arctic armor...but would probably be ok in overalls and sweat shirt!

Good Fishing!

Higz
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: adam on Jan 04, 2012, 08:10 PM
I would start In six to seven fow. And if u can't find them there move deeper and I would be shocked if u dont find a few schools in eight fow. Keep mobile and it sounds like u will have a couple really nice days to get after them. I wish I could be out there drilling holes with ya unfortunately I will have to wait til the weekend.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 04, 2012, 08:23 PM
I got screwed today only managed 10 yellows and some dink eyes. Moved all over could not pinpoint a school. Most I picked off from an area was 2.  Prolly drilled 20+ holes. Did not have waxies tho only minnows maybe that was my prob.  Imma fish it till Saturday and head North catch my walleye dinner in less than a hour ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jumbo chaser on Jan 04, 2012, 11:18 PM
thanks for advice guys . Heading up there friday hope ice is still good at farmers .Crazy weather were im at tommorow 60 driving me crazy . Heard florida had snow its weird we cant get cold yet but its coming thanks again!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jumbo chaser on Jan 04, 2012, 11:22 PM
 Hey shanty town how far north you heading . Heard mili lacs not all lake is froze up there !!!!! Hope you get a lot of eyes up there .Good Luck ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Jan 05, 2012, 06:37 AM
farmers starting to look trashy   come on guys police yourself
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishndude on Jan 05, 2012, 07:18 AM
I agree. Please leave cleaner than when you arrived! I dont get it? Its common sense!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 641cfrank on Jan 05, 2012, 10:28 AM
Well it looks like its going to be another warm one today... I hate when they change the forcast for the next day by 10 degrees :%$#!: You guys that are going out today, please let us know how the ice is by the end of the day. Hoping to get out Saturday.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 05, 2012, 12:08 PM
I didnt see any trash while I was out there yesterday.  But if I do come across it. It comes home with me.  Sucks picking up after people but sometimes you gotta do what ya gotta do.  That ramp down there is a cluster ferk tho.  You think with all the congestion down there every year they would widen/improve that down there or just put in some sorta cul de sac where you can at least turn around easily.  Not to mention days that it melts all that runoff rolls straight down the road ditch into the lake.  Just a guess but clear lake would be even clearer if that was adressed down there AND make fishermen happy.

She will be melting quick its already 54 out......  And windy :(
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: iowaicer on Jan 05, 2012, 03:01 PM
headed up next weekend, sure hope it holds together. weather next week looks promising.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: panman79 on Jan 05, 2012, 06:09 PM
Headed up to the lake this wkend.  Hope the little ice thats there lasts!  Anyone know what it is like after today??  Keep praying for colder weather!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Derek on Jan 05, 2012, 07:51 PM
Headed up to the lake this wkend.  Hope the little ice thats there lasts!  Anyone know what it is like after today??  Keep praying for colder weather!

Its fine. 7 good inches of ice. Dont forsee it going anywhere
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: panman79 on Jan 05, 2012, 08:14 PM
Thanks Derek.  Been looking forward to this for a couple weeks!  Whats the bait of choice?  Looks like spikes.  Anyone using waxies??  Thanks for the input!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jumbo chaser on Jan 05, 2012, 08:33 PM
   Heading up there this weekend hows ice is it safe I heard iowa great lakes are colsed to ice fishing crazy ???????? PM me with conditions please!!!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Jan 05, 2012, 09:52 PM
I didnt see any trash while I was out there yesterday.  But if I do come across it. It comes home with me.  Sucks picking up after people but sometimes you gotta do what ya gotta do.  That ramp down there is a cluster ferk tho.  You think with all the congestion down there every year they would widen/improve that down there or just put in some sorta cul de sac where you can at least turn around easily.  Not to mention days that it melts all that runoff rolls straight down the road ditch into the lake.  Just a guess but clear lake would be even clearer if that was adressed down there AND make fishermen happy.

She will be melting quick its already 54 out......  And windy :(
   Picked up 2 plastic sacks tonite -sacks also there-about 10 cans (bait money) +normal handwarmers, paper,& other trash. also a large crushed  plastic softdrink container & lid laying right behind the parked vehicles in plain site which I left purposely there last nite.  I did this in about 10 min after dark. I know there is alot more to the west of the parking & didn't even look east or along the road.  I've got to say the lake itself looks good in this area-not like the little lake last year.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: squ1rr31_ on Jan 05, 2012, 10:05 PM
Sounds like an Iowegian doing his duty! Take the oath my friend!!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishndude on Jan 06, 2012, 06:08 AM
Thanks Perch  every little bit of pick up helps.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bigwally on Jan 06, 2012, 08:32 AM
I might be making another trip to Clear lake myself.  If anyone hears or sees unsafe ice please report it.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: number905 on Jan 06, 2012, 01:19 PM
Also plan on going up to Clear Lake tomorrow. Please keep us updated on the ice conditions!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 641cfrank on Jan 06, 2012, 06:18 PM
Found out that I had to work tomorrow so I decided go go out today. Got out about 3 and spent about a hour trying to locate a school but didn't have much luck. Caught a couple here and there but they just weren't hitting very good. Been useing minnows and waxies. Had a really good eye but lost it at the hole. The ice for the most part is better then you might expect after yesterday good 7 to 8 inches still (farmers is where I was). Good luck to you guys tomorrow.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: schuttlr on Jan 07, 2012, 06:21 AM
wallteye nibbbles were going strong last night. caught one that was about 17 inches and all stressed out or something with growths all over its head.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 07, 2012, 11:20 AM
Prolly a festering e-coli wound.  I wouldnt eat it.  Id drop it off with me so I can properly dispose of it ;)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icyclone on Jan 07, 2012, 05:22 PM
I'm startin to think the yellows have started movin around in deeper water for the season, thoughts?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: codewordcs1 on Jan 07, 2012, 08:31 PM
Got to farmers at 2 and fished till 5:30 once we found the fish we could get them to come in and look but not too many takers. Kept 4 and caught about 15 but mostly small. Was surprised at how many people were there. Counted 44 vehicles as I drove out and there was at least half a dozen people that left before us. Measured 6.5-7 inches of ice not as bad as I was thinking it was gonna be. We need winter to get here.  :o
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: schuttlr on Jan 07, 2012, 08:56 PM
thats alright crappiebuster ill take care of it.  ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MidnightRambler on Jan 07, 2012, 09:55 PM
So will yellow bass start reacting to all the fishing pressure they've had on CL the last few weeks?

I'm no expert, but I would think they would start changing their behavior after a while. Maybe moving deeper, maybe being pickier about what they hit, maybe feeding in other areas, maybe feeding at night if they can.

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 08, 2012, 04:47 AM
Dont catch em all while im gone guys.  Prolly hit it up again thursday.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: adam on Jan 08, 2012, 10:42 AM
Fished clear yesterday took home 56 yellows and two eyes. Had to stay mobile no more than 3 keepers out of one hole.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Derek on Jan 08, 2012, 01:22 PM
So will yellow bass start reacting to all the fishing pressure they've had on CL the last few weeks?

I'm no expert, but I would think they would start changing their behavior after a while. Maybe moving deeper, maybe being pickier about what they hit, maybe feeding in other areas, maybe feeding at night if they can.

Hope not. The wife and I have an appointment with Paul's guide service on Saturday. I want to make sure she knws i'm not lying about catching fish when I drive to Clear once a week!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: blufloyd on Jan 08, 2012, 01:45 PM
The yellows I am familiar with would hang around in ever increasing number if the feed was still coming. They been rare in my lakes for about 5 years not that I miss them.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: panman79 on Jan 08, 2012, 06:08 PM
Fished at Farmers on Sat.  Took home 35 yellows and 1 eye!  Had a blast!!  Good luck yall!!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: cyclone on Jan 08, 2012, 06:29 PM
Still in that 8 FOW?  I haven't been there since 2011 (The 30th :)).  We did good on Minnow heads on spoons, are you having to downsize?

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: schuttlr on Jan 09, 2012, 05:55 AM
ive caught the most yellows off of waxies now. Week or two ago minnows were the hot bait for me
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bigwally on Jan 09, 2012, 11:32 AM
What are you putting the waxies on?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: russjess on Jan 09, 2012, 11:44 AM
Hows the ice holding up
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ed4 on Jan 09, 2012, 12:08 PM
Farmers still fishable! Thinking about heading up in the morning to give it a try.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: JOEKR on Jan 09, 2012, 12:12 PM
farmers has 7in picket up 9 yellows last night. hows the small lake?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 641cfrank on Jan 09, 2012, 07:03 PM
What are you putting the waxies on?

I've been using ratso's. I also tried some small spoons with 2 or 3 waxies on them and thats been working good too.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: schuttlr on Jan 10, 2012, 05:48 AM
gill pill or cecil
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bigwally on Jan 10, 2012, 07:38 PM
I also like the gill pill
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Derek on Jan 11, 2012, 12:48 PM
I like using a diamond jig and a plastic like a nuggie. Its pretty cool to ice 30 yellows with out having to change bait. Only thing that would be better is a bare hook and if you find the right hole, thats possible too.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 11, 2012, 05:28 PM
Mmmmm supper.
(http://i44.tinypic.com/264kols.jpg)

21 inches Released.
(http://i43.tinypic.com/svmous.jpg)

19 inches Released.
(http://i44.tinypic.com/rmr52u.jpg)

22 1/4 inches Released.
(http://i41.tinypic.com/iwutcj.jpg)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: squ1rr31_ on Jan 11, 2012, 05:34 PM
LOW or Mille Lacs?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 11, 2012, 05:35 PM
Url. On the reverse structure 14fow.  Stayed with Portavilla outfitters 90 dollars a day for a 6.5x16 extremly nice guys. I would highly recomend them if anyone wants to catch a buncha walleyes.  Or a huge northern I heard someone got a 47incher while I was up there.  Thats close to 30lbs ;)

This is the reverse structure im talking about. Close to 7 feet of ice in some areas due to it piling up on top of each other.
(http://i40.tinypic.com/2csb3hj.jpg)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: squ1rr31_ on Jan 11, 2012, 05:56 PM
I miss Upper Red.... We used to go up every summer for close to 10 years. Started staying at West Wind resort in Waskish. GREAT food! Never ice fished Upper Red, going up to MN for a week in February maybe we'll try up there..
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 11, 2012, 06:10 PM
Very very reasonable rates through Portavilla nice houses and nice guys.http://www.portavilla.com/index.html (http://www.portavilla.com/index.html)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ASATMillerbluegill on Jan 11, 2012, 08:02 PM
Great fishing and setup CB!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 641cfrank on Jan 12, 2012, 12:38 AM
Looks like you had a good trip! Love the pics  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: iowaicer on Jan 12, 2012, 09:21 AM
Nice catch, and that ice pic is something else. headed to CL tomorrow at noon for the weekend.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crae on Jan 12, 2012, 09:49 AM
Thinking of heading up to Clear Lake on Friday, anyone have any ice reports, catching any fish?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: iowaicer on Jan 12, 2012, 01:24 PM
Thinking of heading up to Clear Lake on Friday, anyone have any ice reports, catching any fish?

and is the wind affecting ice conditions?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ed4 on Jan 12, 2012, 06:26 PM
heading up there bright and early tomorrow. We will be fishing Farmers area in a red Eskimo quickflip 2. Stop by and say hey or shoot me a pm if your gunna be up there. Gunna be coooold.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 12, 2012, 06:32 PM
She will be close to zero if not below zero. Think im gonna wait till the heat of the day rolls in which will be about +10.  Finnaly a few days of ice making weather ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ed4 on Jan 12, 2012, 06:55 PM
Yea its gunna be real cold dragging out straight into that wind. At least I'm gonna get to try out this new beard I have been growing! ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: iowaicer on Jan 12, 2012, 07:31 PM
heading up there bright and early tomorrow. We will be fishing Farmers area in a red Eskimo quickflip 2. Stop by and say hey or shoot me a pm if your gunna be up there. Gunna be coooold.
I will be up mid day. Red quickflip 2 and a green one.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: codewordcs1 on Jan 12, 2012, 08:38 PM
Yea its gunna be real cold dragging out straight into that wind. At least I'm gonna get to try out this new beard I have been growing! ;D

Had me a nice 3 1/2" or so been growing since Aug. 13th (daughter's birthday) for her and for ice fishing. Spent a lot of time itching to get to that good spot and a few days ago we decided to sacrifice it to the gods of winter which seems to be working  ;)2 but man is my face freezing   :unsure: I'm thinking you're gonna love it tomorrow in that cold.  ;D Good luck
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ASATMillerbluegill on Jan 12, 2012, 09:34 PM
Anybody fished Dodges Point lately?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: goosehntr69 on Jan 12, 2012, 09:44 PM
Not that I know of as of Sunday, but I don't know everything. ;)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 12, 2012, 11:25 PM
Dodges point was open a few weeks ago it skimmed over with very thin ice.  Basically farmers and the little lake is the only thing thats safe.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ASATMillerbluegill on Jan 13, 2012, 06:06 AM
Thanks CB. Headed up tomorrow am.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 13, 2012, 09:34 AM
Anyone been out on farmers in the past day or two?  Just wondering if its starting to look okay for quads yet?  Mine needs to get out and be ran. Only has 200 miles on it.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: adam on Jan 13, 2012, 12:11 PM
Saw quad out last weekend
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bassrat on Jan 13, 2012, 03:55 PM
out on farmers this morning...8" of good ice.  managed about 20 yellows (all about 10" - nice eaters) in a little over 2 hours...mcintosh was open looked like the rest of the lake had frozen but cracks were wet...still pretty thin elsewhere.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 515deerhunter on Jan 13, 2012, 10:29 PM
how dose the ice across the north shore look.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: JOEKR on Jan 13, 2012, 10:40 PM
There was 2 shacks off the pump hose east of the open water don't now how thick the ice is.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bassrat on Jan 14, 2012, 08:53 AM
how dose the ice across the north shore look.

FRESH......
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 14, 2012, 07:27 PM
Lotsa lookers off farmers today.  They didnt seem to committed. That access is an absolute joke.  Suprised no one went postal :o
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: buckeye24 on Jan 14, 2012, 10:27 PM
Fished the lake this afternoon and did pretty well!!!  ;D

(http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb462/Buckeye245/2012-01-14_17-55-01_175.jpg)

(http://i1207.photobucket.com/albums/bb462/Buckeye245/2012-01-14_17-46-29_959.jpg)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: schuttlr on Jan 14, 2012, 10:29 PM
not bad
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: adam on Jan 14, 2012, 10:33 PM
Very impressive buckeye! I have been up a couple times this year but have never seen a haul like that. By no means looking for secret spots or lures but do u have ne tips ur willing to share?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: buckeye24 on Jan 14, 2012, 10:49 PM
Very impressive buckeye! I have been up a couple times this year but have never seen a haul like that. By no means looking for secret spots or lures but do u have ne tips ur willing to share?
Just stay mobile! Drill a bunch of holes and hop between them! Until you find a hot one and once you find them stay after them!!!
Good Luck!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Jan 15, 2012, 12:25 AM
Nice work Buckeye.....too bad I know where you were fishing. ;)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: cyclone on Jan 15, 2012, 06:54 AM
NIce Job Buckeye!  Were you the fisherman that I offered my measley 6 keepers too when I was walking back in?  I thought I mis understood you when you said that you had already GIVEN away a ton of fish.............I was all over and drilled 60 + holes out in 9 - 10 FOW.............nothin g but small ones.  We started out shallow and thought we had to go deep..........just should have stayed in and drilled more holes e-w
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: buckeye24 on Jan 15, 2012, 10:39 AM
NIce Job Buckeye!  Were you the fisherman that I offered my measley 6 keepers too when I was walking back in?  I thought I mis understood you when you said that you had already GIVEN away a ton of fish.............I was all over and drilled 60 + holes out in 9 - 10 FOW.............nothin g but small ones.  We started out shallow and thought we had to go deep..........just should have stayed in and drilled more holes e-w
No that wasn't me! I have bad days to! Just stay mobile!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 15, 2012, 11:23 AM
How are you guys accessing the baptist camp? ;D
Do they like catholics?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Handy on Jan 15, 2012, 06:58 PM
Well you were lucky buckeye(or good,lol) I have fished there last weekend and this weekend and got nada. Almost all of the others I talked to told me they got nothing too. I must need to find a better spot there. Looks like good eatin!


Paul
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 641cfrank on Jan 15, 2012, 08:44 PM
How are you guys accessing the baptist camp? ;D
Do they like catholics?

Nope! You have to be baptist  ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Jan 15, 2012, 09:22 PM
Wow what a pile of fish.  No wonder why we didn't catch any this morning.  We were there for two hours without a bite at Farmers.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: slammin slabs on Jan 15, 2012, 10:58 PM
How many fow were they in??? I have been over ther 3 times and got 1 fish went to silver at lake park today and struck out didn't see or mark a single fish really puts a sour tate in a guys mouth when u drive a hr and a half and strike out I'm due for a hual like that
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Jan 16, 2012, 06:57 AM
Buckeye didn't get them all. Fished from 8-12 Sunday morning got 136.

I have to say my friend Randy ( who does not icefish) did pretty well even with my son Levi trash talking without mercy.  ;D


(http://i40.tinypic.com/15mgx36.jpg)




Now to the defense of poor Buckeye.


I look at Yellow Bass the same way the DNR has issued a conservation order on snow geese. Without aggressive control of this species you will have a similair outcome to what has happened in many other waters around the state. They grow in the warmer monthes at a incredible 3/4" to 1" a month, so the dinks that you are pestered by will be next falls dinner.  :)

The yellows are there in very high #'s. The fishing is better than last year (not the ice conditions)  :'(.

So,please do not blame Buckeye for your poor fishing, but feel free to give him all the CRAP you want he deserves it!!!!

All you need to know about catching these Clear Lake Paranha's (sp?) is in these posts if you look back far enough. 

Good Luck

YTD 1110 yellows, 1 walleye, 2 catfish

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: graybeard on Jan 16, 2012, 08:06 AM
 I'm debating driving up to fish on Friday and possibly spending the night and fishing Saturday morning also. Would there be any problem getting a motel at the last minute. I never like to plan too much ahead as things have a way of going wrong, but I've got a short list of places to go, and Clear is one of them.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ASATMillerbluegill on Jan 16, 2012, 08:21 AM
We fished saturday from 2 pm till 10:30 pm. No yellows and couldnt get on any walleye either. Caught a few dink crappies. This is our 2nd trip to Clear Lake. We fished Mcintosh the 1st time and farmers this time. We would have liked to try the big water and get on Dodges point and into some water. We determined that Clear Lake is a drinking lake and not a fish catching lake. There were 75 huts and no one seemed to be doing any good.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bgwhitetail on Jan 16, 2012, 10:43 AM
Its pretty funny how people on here constantly brag about how many they are catching and how invasive these fish are but won't say where they are catching them. and then they get 5 or 6 guys together and say they caught 150 fish.  So actually they prolly caught about 30 ea. Las time I was there I went out in front of the baptist camp and hammered them. Tiny jigs and spikes.  Drillen a bunch of holes fished till I caught some.  When I caught some I moved the house and drilled for the house.  They were gone.  Did this a few times till I realized it mus have been spooking the fish.  Left the house and did well!  So for those who are having a hard time gettin those invasive fish.  Maybe this will help.   
 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 16, 2012, 10:45 AM
Everyone on the lake could take home 200 a day and there would still be plenty of yellows.  Got into a swarm of juveniles that was 5 foot thick the other day.  Drill another hole 10 feet away same story.  They will take over a lake they are an invasive species and will destroy the lake.  When I was over there this weekend people just seemed to come out drill a few holes set up their shack in the crowds and call it good.   You need to drill drill drill! Move on every five minutes or so till you find a solid school. And sometimes when that doesnt work you can say to yourself that you tried your best. Put your tail between your legs and try another day.  But never blame another fisherman.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: panman79 on Jan 16, 2012, 11:00 AM
I was up there about a week ago!  We did pretty well.  We seemed to be catching them on anything really.  The Minnow head seemed to work best.  I think biggest thing to stress is stay MOBILE, just like everyone is sayin!  They call it fishin for a reason ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: iccy on Jan 16, 2012, 12:29 PM
I've been up to Clear 5-6 times this winter already and have had success each time out.  My gf and I were out yesterday and went home with 25 or so.  Half of those fish came out of just 1 hole and in about 5 minutes time.  The action can be very fast and 15 ft between holes can make all the difference.

People on here generally don't say where they were catching them at but I don't think it really matters that much with these yellow bass.  I guarantee they are biting and active somewhere on the lake.  If you really want to know where they are biting, look for guys that aren't fishing in shacks, that what I do.  The guys that are really good at finding yellows, don't bother with a shack.

I think this forum is great for ice fishing nuts like myself and I have been a browsing troll for a long time.  I think it was time for me to sign up and start sharing.  I appreciate all the great advice that guys give out on here, hopefully I can return the favor someday.     
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 16, 2012, 01:24 PM
Welcome to the iceshanty.......
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 641cfrank on Jan 16, 2012, 02:21 PM
What are you guys seeing for ice thickness right now? Haven't been up there for about a week and I'm itching to get my permy out!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: iccy on Jan 16, 2012, 02:59 PM
I measured 6-7 inches yesterday along north shore, east of baptist camp.  I think it's gonna be awhile yet for permies.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 16, 2012, 04:49 PM
If the weather would stay stable it wouldnt be a problem bringing them out. Its them odd 45-50 degree days that popup all the time thats worrysome. Anyone that bought a wheelhouse this year I feel for you. That 8 inches of ice thats out there has been soggy and refrozen so many times its junk ice I wouldnt trust it to far. End of Janruary hopefully people start pulling them out.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 641cfrank on Jan 16, 2012, 05:33 PM
How bout Farmers? I was out on those days it was 55 degrees and I was still finding 10inches (8 good) of ice on the east side of Farmers. I thought with this good weather Farmers would have 12inches of good ice by now. Even if the fishing has slowed down there it'd still be nice to put a permy and then move around with a portable...
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 16, 2012, 05:48 PM
I didnt measure it the other day but it was probably around 8-9 inches.  Pretty good crack out there yet that hasnt seemed to heal up the best.  Are you gonna drive it out with a vehicle or atv?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Wally Lindner on Jan 16, 2012, 06:13 PM
Lets say the DNR never introduced yellow bass to Clear Lake.  How would the ice fishin be?  Would there be more crappies and perch?  From what I read Clear Lake was all walleyes in the past and now its all yellows.  East Okoboji is full of them and West will follow.  Scary!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 641cfrank on Jan 16, 2012, 06:19 PM
I didnt measure it the other day but it was probably around 8-9 inches.  Pretty good crack out there yet that hasnt seemed to heal up the best.  Are you gonna drive it out with a vehicle or atv?
Ha, it's a 19' camper so I will have to wait til I can use a truck. I pull it with a 2007 ford ranger so I figured combined weight will be a little more then a half ton truck, but still... Definitely not the year I was expecting when i bought the camper last fall  >:(
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 16, 2012, 06:23 PM
Wish I had my old dakota it was quite a bit lighter than the 6600lbs im at now :-\
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MidnightRambler on Jan 16, 2012, 06:29 PM
Lets say the DNR never introduced yellow bass to Clear Lake.  How would the ice fishin be?  Would there be more crappies and perch?  From what I read Clear Lake was all walleyes in the past and now its all yellows.  East Okoboji is full of them and West will follow.  Scary!

Did the DNR introduce yellow bass to Clear Lake, was it some bucket biologist, or are they native?

I ask because above and beyond yellow bass, Clear Lake is not a healthy lake. Carp, shoreline development, and generally poor water quality are all issues.

If there was not intensive walleye stocking, there would be no walleye in Clear Lake, because the walleye spawning success rate is pretty much zero. The shortage of weed growth (due to cloudy water, carp, and shoreline development) has to hurt the ability of perch, crappie and bluegill to establish strong populations in there as well.

If Clear Lake had better water quality and weed growth (never gonna happen), I have to wonder if stronger populations of perch, crappie, bluegill, largemouth, and naturally-reproducing walleye, Northern, and muskie (they're all stocked) might not keep the yellow bass, whether they are native there or not, in check. It may be the yellows, like carp and bullhead, simply have the ability to thrive and take the place of other fish species in poor water conditions. 

Take out the walleye, Northern, channel cat, and muskie, all of which are stocked in Clear Lake, and what do you have left?

Like I said, this is all a moot point, because no one is ever going be able to restore Clear Lake's shoreline, or curb the agricultural runoff going in there.

From what I know of the IGLs, they have far better water quality and weed growth than does Clear Lake; it may be that yellow bass will not be anything more than a minor nuisance in those lakes.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 16, 2012, 06:48 PM
Yellow bass were introduced through a bucket biologist.  If the dnr has stocked any yellow bass in Iowa they should be tarred and feathered.  The water quality has been getting better every year since the dredging.  Once the marsh is restored it will get even better.  Weeds have just started making a comeback on the lake. Also have started noticing some decent year classes of perch.  Its slowly getting better.  Slllloooooowwwwlllly is the key word.  Definetly no longer on the list of top 10 Iowa fishing destinations tho.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 16, 2012, 06:52 PM
They have & are taking measures by recently dredging out the little lake & making it deeper. I believe the goal is to provide clearer water & promote weed growth. Actually, I've heard of more crappie being caught the last few yrs more than in past years. I actually caught some off the grade this past fall. Last year, my old man & I were over yanking some yellows & actually caught a heck of a bluegill & one of the more larger jumbo perch I've seen in a long time. Actually, we caught quite a few perch but the one jumbo pushed 13-14 inches.

So, in summary, I think the health of Clear Lake & future of it look a lot better now than in the past years. Still have to keep the yellow population in check.  So, pull em & fry em.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: iowaicer on Jan 17, 2012, 09:16 AM
Was up there over the weekend and fished friday, saturday, and sunday on farmers. Didnt slay them by any means, but didnt go home empty handed. Staying mobile is the key, but as cold as it was, it was tough. Caught them on waxies, live minows, and berkley shiners. Even got into a few walleyes at night, no keepers. Our group had fun. Did speak to several people going on and off that didnt catch anything or only caught one or two. It happens. I will go back for sure.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SpoonieLuv on Jan 17, 2012, 11:24 AM
Fishing yellows on Clear Lake is not for the guy who wants to just sit in his shanty. You have to be mobile and punch a bunch of holes to keep on them. Somedays it's a lot of work, but when you figure it out it sure is FUN!  ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icyclone on Jan 17, 2012, 01:17 PM
i know staying mobile is key, and i have no problem with that, but is there any specific fow that anybody has been having luck at? maybe 8?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: iowaicer on Jan 17, 2012, 01:45 PM
i know staying mobile is key, and i have no problem with that, but is there any specific fow that anybody has been having luck at? maybe 8?
didn't matter for us, they were always on the bottom. I just dropped to the bottom and back up and they would chase. A LOT of lookers. Never got into a big school like the others, but caught them often enough to not get bored.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: goosehntr69 on Jan 17, 2012, 05:05 PM
Perch fishing went down hill when they put the stupid musky in there.  I've been hearing about how the yellows were going to take the lake over for the better part of 20 years now.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Jan 17, 2012, 06:28 PM
Perch are on there way back along with the Crappies.  The Perch will have a place to lay there eggs now that there is some vegetation.  Amen for the Water Project.   
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 641cfrank on Jan 17, 2012, 07:11 PM
Perch are on there way back along with the Crappies.  The Perch will have a place to lay there eggs now that there is some vegetation.  Amen for the Water Project.   
X2   :thumbsup:

If I'm not in a school of yellows I seen to catch more crappie then anything else, and that's fine with me! I also love eating yellows so I really don't see a need to complain about them.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MidnightRambler on Jan 18, 2012, 09:20 AM
And just like that, with some good ice in southern Iowa the Clear Lake thread drops way down the page.  ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: cyclone on Jan 19, 2012, 10:48 AM
Thats OK, the pressure Clear Lake was getting (as it was the only lake of its size withing 2 hours frozen with a good 7 inches of ice) was pretty high.

Now on to the east side of the lake
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 19, 2012, 11:45 AM
Yeh it was getting kinda hard to access the ice beings everyone was crammed onto 1 spot on the lake. Unload gear at ramp drive a 1/4 mile to the top of the hill park truck.  Walk back to gear and hopefully everythings still there kinda sketchy leaving close to 2000$ in gear sitting by the boat ramp.  People with them lighter trucks could probably start parkin them close to shore off the ramp.  Shes definetly froze to the bottom first 15 yards out at least.  That would help relieve the parking congestion a little bit.

Should have a good 10+ inches now. Any verification on that?
-4 at noon yet :tipup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: goosehntr69 on Jan 19, 2012, 08:11 PM
Fished farmers for a couple of hours tonight.  Measured 12" of ice.  Caught a lot of dinks,no keepers, didn't feel like moving around due to the temperature.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 19, 2012, 08:56 PM
Gonna be tempting to drive out when I get back from up north monday.  Anyone else gonna take out their wheelhouse?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Jan 19, 2012, 09:32 PM
I'm going to try tomorrow.  I hope the snow helps with the entrance at Farmers.  Im not sure my house will make it over the heave. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 19, 2012, 10:44 PM
Gonna be tempting to drive out when I get back from up north monday.  Anyone else gonna take out their wheelhouse?

Whatever happened to the camper/fishhouse you used to have before you bought your wheelhouse? If I remember correctly, you had an older camper that you used.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 19, 2012, 11:40 PM
Were still using it.  Maybe be out next week sometime.
If the snowfall isnt that bad.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bobracing32 on Jan 21, 2012, 11:35 AM
Havent been fishing in a while. I want to bring my wheel house out, but how bad is the heave? I thought about bringing the skid loader down and busting up the heave. Would it do more damage breaking it up or not?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Jan 21, 2012, 02:51 PM
It looks like you can drive on the ice just to the right of the heave.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 641cfrank on Jan 21, 2012, 03:14 PM
Someone should bring in a load of gravel for use and make a nice driveway  ;)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: DAN03REV on Jan 21, 2012, 06:08 PM
ice thick enough to drive trucks and houses out ?? .. how thick should it be for safe drive out ?? .. anxious to pull out my new camper/house
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: cyclone on Jan 21, 2012, 07:34 PM
Got an ATV.......i would be you could go over the entire lake on an ATV (minus the aerators of course)  I don't know if I would push the cars and trucks out yet........but that is just me
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Jan 21, 2012, 08:40 PM
I drove out on the lake today.  13" of good ice where I put my house. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 21, 2012, 09:23 PM
I drove out on the lake today.  13" of good ice where I put my house.


Now all we need to know is where EXACTLY did you put your house!    ;) ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Jan 21, 2012, 09:30 PM
farmers you cant miss it.  follow the truck tracks ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: northerner on Jan 23, 2012, 12:39 PM
Did anyone get out this weekend and do some fishing?  Is the bite still slow or did it pickup in another spot?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 23, 2012, 06:38 PM
Back from up north caught more eyes than you could shake a stick at and some perchies tooooo.  Lost a few bigguns also.  No pig northerns which was suprising.  The family truckster will be going out tommorow.  How's the snow out there?  Did most of it blow off?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bobracing32 on Jan 24, 2012, 07:29 AM
Alot of snow out there.... Farmers will be tricky getting on. Had a path plowed then it blew in. I dont think my four wheeler can plow it out again.... Ill be heading out around noon hopefully i can get to my shack!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 24, 2012, 09:31 AM
Is the ramp just bad and pretty smooth sailing once you get out there?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 961kyle on Jan 24, 2012, 09:37 AM
Been up to farmers a few times.  Wondering if there is good fishing around the island? 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 24, 2012, 09:41 AM
There was decent fishing in years past.  No one has ice fished it much in the past few years.  Ice formed kinda iffy around there this year.  Theres a nice lil hole off the island that everyone used to put their shacks on.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bobracing32 on Jan 24, 2012, 10:03 AM
The road is clear. Just once on the lake it looks deep. However the path i plowed might just be fluff. A guy might be able to just drive right through it?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 24, 2012, 10:34 AM
A full size with decent tires and weight in the back with 4wheel drive should be able to make it out though right?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 641cfrank on Jan 24, 2012, 10:53 AM
Is farmers the only safe place to drive on right now???
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 24, 2012, 06:07 PM
You aint gonna be able to drive out there until someone clears out the right hand side of the ramp where the heaves arent.  Looks like someone tried to clear left and got screwed over on the heaves.  Once you get out there 20-30 yrds its fine but the ramp is pretty much drifted in like a unfriendly female.  Whooever had the plow thanks for trying at least ;D

Think we need the sledgehammer brigade out there to bust down the heaves.  And the d.n.r to redesign the ramp so people can at least turn around with a trailer. And not have to back up a few hundred feet. I know you wont be able to launch boats there but it'd be nice to keep the ice fishermen in mind.  Guess people can always dream. :-\
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 24, 2012, 08:14 PM
Is that state land where you are talking about?  Maybe we all should start calling & complaining & request that they make it a bit better to accommodate the ice fishing revenue better. It would really be nice if they actually made a boat landing with a nice sized lot.  But, when thinking about it, I think there is private farm land to the east & west so there may not be room for a huge parking lot. There is a maintenance building to the E side of the road. They may have to purchase some private land. There is some timber that if they purchased they would have to cut down & work the land. The purchasing of the private land & having to work the timber is what is probably stopping them. But, it would sure be nice having a landing there in the summer along with ample parking & access in the winter. It is definitely tight in there.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bobracing32 on Jan 24, 2012, 09:24 PM
The snow was a little deeper than i thought. Once i got over the heave the four wheeler and i had some troubles. It would take me a day and a half to try to plow a path with the four wheeler again. Sorry for all walking out.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 25, 2012, 08:57 AM
Two bad a couple guys with chain saws couldn't go over there & do some hacking on the heave then have a plow smooth it out for a decent road.    ;) ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: anderson_dc on Jan 25, 2012, 09:51 AM
Leave the trees alone, it's enjoyable listening to the turkeys gobble right away in the morning while you're ice fishing! ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bobracing32 on Jan 25, 2012, 12:07 PM
Theres a path plowed on the lake off farmers now. Getting on and through the shlush spot might be a little tricky. After that its clear sailing.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 641cfrank on Jan 25, 2012, 11:53 PM
Theres a path plowed on the lake off farmers now.

Thanks for taking the time to do that. Do you got the lifted dodge? I saw it parked there tuesday when I was out... 

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bobracing32 on Jan 26, 2012, 08:13 AM
Ya thats my truck.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 26, 2012, 10:36 AM
Thanks for doing that Bob.  I'm gonna scout it out and make sure it will be smooth sailing to get the house out there this afternoon.
You drive that beast of a dodge all the way out?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bobracing32 on Jan 26, 2012, 03:47 PM
You clear for your shack, bring it out. No i just used my four wheeler for now. That truck is fairly heavy....
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 26, 2012, 06:22 PM
Kudos to you Bob for going out of your way & using your $$ to make it easier for A LOT of people!  A sincere thank you & this is from a guy who has some mobility issues & can only get on if the conditions are perfect. I've got a quad to help, but still need a consistent 6" of ice without all the snow. So, thank you!  If I see your truck, I'll throw a twelver in the back!! 

I recommend others do the same.  ;)

Thanks Bob.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 641cfrank on Jan 27, 2012, 02:48 PM
Do you guys think that slush spot off  farmers is dangerous for a truck? I'm wanting to pull my camper out and I don't know if I will be able to pull through that spot. I'm thinking ill have someone go in front of me and help pull me through it.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bobracing32 on Jan 27, 2012, 02:51 PM
Its fairly deep. Honestly i dont think you should have any troubles. If you try to jump off the path theres still slush all around it.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: limited on Jan 27, 2012, 06:35 PM
Thinking of making the trip from Cedar Rapids in the AM.  Should I pull up the 4 Wheeler?  Never fished there before, is farmers the only access for quads?  Thanks in advance for your comments.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Jan 27, 2012, 08:41 PM
The pump house is ok.   Don't drive the atv in the little lake.  There is a spot that is 2.5" The big lake should be good.  Have fun and good luck.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: limited on Jan 27, 2012, 11:19 PM
Thanks, I'm the only one making the trip so won't go off the beat-in path.  Next weekend some of the guys say they could make the triip with me.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: cyclone on Jan 29, 2012, 09:00 PM
SOOOOO dead today..........was over at Billy's, farmers mid day, and the island...........very very slow.  And tons of snow on the ice, my lil TRX 350 ES 4x4 was working pretty hard to get through all the drifts
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 29, 2012, 09:22 PM
How was the ice over by the Island and Billys? 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: cyclone on Jan 29, 2012, 09:24 PM
Island = 12 solid inches
Billy's = 7 solid, but lots of crap on top.  There were a few places that we broke into some slush pockets
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ifinderH20 on Jan 30, 2012, 02:45 PM
I was out fishing on Saturday to give it a try and ended up on one of the reefs on the big lake.  I fished from 2:00-6:00 and had some live action right around 4:45, I missed a first bite he had nothin but the minnow, the next one I landed and pulled in a 13" eye.  Soo I thought hmm I'm in the right spot, quickly loaded up again and had no more action.  The roomer had it, it was a real good spot the year before for nice big crappies and bluegill...but they move around alot as you all know.  There was a MN fisherman next to me (nice guy) and he was showing me his hawkeye fish finder and shooting the water horizontally and it was showing plenty of fish on the reef... (maybe sniffer and not biters), he didn't catch anything either.  However there was a man 50 yards from us and he claimed to catch 14" & 17" eyes and two yellows... Hard to believe but I would like to  ;)

I was out a couple weeks ago with crappiebuster and we fished some reef action and moved around alot (probably 20 holes) we didn't land any eyes to my knowledge, but a few yellows 4 between us to make a meal, thanks cb my wife and I enjoyed it!  :)

Anyone else w/ any fishin storys from last weekend?  Would love to hear them...
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: RippinCrappieLips on Jan 30, 2012, 03:24 PM
We fished Little Lake Sat. morning and evening.  11-12" ice, some honeycomb on top of that.   We fished 20-22 FOW straight out from the inlet.  Was a pretty good group.  Another group drove on just to NE of us, by the ramp.

Marked heavy fish action both outings, caught a couple dozen but no keepers.  Basically 7-8" crappie was it.  It is nice out there with the deep areas dredged out.  Should be good fishing... just not last weekend. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: limited on Jan 30, 2012, 03:56 PM
Fished all day Sat. from 8-6:30 total of 15 crappie 6 yellow and 1 eye.  All dinks was out west of farmers.  Not decided yet if it's worth the trip next Sat or may try storm or brushy.  Ice down here is leaving us quickly, lot of run off water on mcbride today.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 641cfrank on Jan 30, 2012, 10:04 PM
It is nice out there with the deep areas dredged out.  Should be good fishing... just not last weekend. 

I wonder, how much better do you guys think the fishing will be in the entire lake next winter with it being dredged? Also how much do the fish grow in a year... I know the yellows probably grow the fastest but what about the crappie and the few perch in there?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ifinderH20 on Jan 31, 2012, 07:41 AM
I personally don't know how fast the fish grow but I have had some experience fishing when we get a plentiful supply of rain, if it rains enough for the lake to come up and some more weed beds get covered it would most definetly help the fishing in the big lakes in different areas I don't think then we would have a consentrated school of fish in just some areas like we are seeing now.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 31, 2012, 10:49 AM
Fished the east end hole and billys yesterday.  Marked 1 fish in 3hrs.  Hopefully the dnr is keeping an eye on oxygen levels I put fresh lake water in my minnow bucket because they were sucking air.  They almost seemed worse off after I did that.  Are the aerators back on?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Jan 31, 2012, 11:39 AM
CB this was in the paper a week ago.


CLEAR LAKE - The aeration system on Clear Lake will not be used for the rest of the winter, according to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

The decision was made due to the late onset of winter weather and adequate levels of oxygen in the lake, according to the DNR.

The aerators are designed to reduce the probability of a winter fish kill in an attempt to maintain a high quality fishery and to insure the benefits of the water quality work completed in recent years.

Officials are advising caution should you decide to go out on the lake.

Fisheries biologist Scott Grummer said ice conditions are variable throughout Clear Lake. Unsafe ice exists in areas recently frozen and near pressure ridges.

Grummer said the aeration system will be operated as normal in future years.



Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 31, 2012, 03:06 PM
Hope they are keeping close tabs on it. :-\
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ifinderH20 on Jan 31, 2012, 04:54 PM
I happen to see ya fishing the ease side looks like you where heading towards Billy Reef when I left, I pulled up in my work van and thought about going out and fishin with ya I was done w/ work, but you where a long ways off shore lol. 

Ya in the past years its been very dead out on the east side of the big lake.  So I wasn't to confident there's many fish out there, I had a friend of mine who shot horizontilly with an old paper graft meter hundreds of feet out there on the east side of the big lake that said there was basically no fish accept for a larger fish roming by itself (probably a musky) every once and a while.  I'm not convinced yet there are many fish just hanging out in the big lake in the ice season.  It seems they are grouped up on the west side moving about and harder to track down than one would think.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 31, 2012, 05:21 PM
Yeh I dunno what the deal is with the east end they used to be thick over there years back.  Now its a dead sea :-\

Throwing everyting I got at em and still striking out.  Did get a pretty decent tan yesterday tho @)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ifinderH20 on Jan 31, 2012, 06:46 PM
I bet you did lol  ;D Ya I had the itch to go fishin so I went out on big blue yesterday and popped a bunch of holes and found a few fish, I caught only one blue gill kind decent size and had a couple of big bites but by the time I ran over to the pole he was gone :-\ I was thinkin a bass or pesky northern but it was at least fun.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ifinderH20 on Feb 01, 2012, 10:44 AM
I plan on heading out to the little lake bright and early Sat. morning, is the ice still safe out there or are there spots of 2.5" of ice is anyone keeping tabs on the ice levels?  A friend of mine is coming over from Algona and we are going to do an early morning fish I don't think I have ever got the gumshon to fish there early (except staying overnight in the pull behind).  Is the fishing anygood in the morning if so where?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 01, 2012, 11:01 AM
I'd steer clear of the little lake unless you know where the bad ice was at.  I remember it earlier in the year there would be 7 inches here 4 over there and open over there.  Low light and bad ice isnt a good combination.  Hasnt had any time to heal with the +40 degree days we have been having.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: russjess on Feb 01, 2012, 01:51 PM
So farmers is good still looking at sat morning
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ifinderH20 on Feb 01, 2012, 02:08 PM
Yes that was my next question, is farmers ice still thick enough to walk out on?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Feb 01, 2012, 02:46 PM
I just pulled my house off today with the truck.  Its really sloppy but still 13"
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Feb 02, 2012, 08:55 AM
Anyone fishing on the little lake? Heading out this afternoon. Just wondering how many fow people are fishing. Hopefully ther is still fish I know its been hit hard. Let me know
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jplp on Feb 02, 2012, 11:23 AM
the temps are suppose to go down all next week so hopfully that will strengthen the ice on the lake. As of right now what is the average depth of the ice on the main lake?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bassfishineric12 on Feb 03, 2012, 12:48 PM
it was about 6-7 inches in front of the pump house when I went there on wednesday. Thats minus all the slush
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Feb 07, 2012, 08:27 PM
headin to clear lake tomorrow morning. headin over to larenzos to see if i can get some walleye or yellows. no one has mentioned anything here on CL. kinda worried if fishin has been slow or everybody is out fishin!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icyclone on Feb 07, 2012, 09:58 PM
where on the lake is lorenzos?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Feb 07, 2012, 10:03 PM
right by the Ventura access launch. more of the north western part of the lake
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Feb 08, 2012, 11:44 AM
drove around lake last nite only 6 sets out-5 on little lake-3scattered out from lorenzo, 1 off grade & 1 off weed west of mcintosh. nobody on farmers or island- 1 off pumphouse almost half across
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 08, 2012, 12:12 PM
Is that lorenzos in between the new boat ramp and the new jetty?  What is it a reef or just an area?  12 fow?  I did well in that area begginning of last ice season tried it early Jan and found schools upon schools of yearling yellows.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Feb 08, 2012, 02:03 PM
Yes just the park there
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Feb 08, 2012, 09:18 PM
went out this afternoon, saw a truck driving around on the lake today and i figured i would be the first to see it go down but never did. did alright tonight caught 2 white bass 1 15" and 1 13" 1 perch and one small yellow...hopefully headin out again sometime this week
 :tipup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ifinderH20 on Feb 09, 2012, 02:04 PM
I was out last weekend fishing on farmers, I started on some reefs on farmers and headed all the way up to the Baptist camp trying to find fish and it was pretty dead Sat. afternoon.  Then I started heading back towards the peps out on farmers and as soon as I got close to them I started spotting fish.  They sniffed but didn't bite, seemed to just hang out on the bottom and do nothin.  I talked to the Dnr he was doing his fishing report and it sounded like everyone was staying in a hole for about 3-4 minutes and moving around alot and the action was slow.  I left without even a bite...

I notice there wasn't many people out on farmers either very few... That was surprising to me, maybe because of superbowl weekend.  The temps are low again is anyone spotting fish in the small lake or any reefs?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: number905 on Feb 09, 2012, 07:20 PM
Any place in clear lake that rents augers?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Feb 13, 2012, 04:47 PM
There are plenty of yellows to be had. I was out with a group of 5 today and caught 206 yellows in 3 hours.
Fish were very aggressive hitting small spoons and cutbait.
We have been focusing on the deeper areas with soft bottom 9-12'.

Sorry no pics snowing and blowing too hard this morniing.

The little lake is full of small yellows, would not waste your time in there if your targeting yellows.

Good luck.

YTD: 1689 yellows, 3 walleyes, 5 catfish
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 13, 2012, 05:35 PM
West of the pumphouse lucky or farmers area?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Feb 14, 2012, 07:36 AM
Crappie,

I started fishing a little farther east. ;)

I will be going back out weds. if you want to tag along.

luckydog
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 14, 2012, 12:56 PM
I'll be in Minnesota Wednesday but should be back thurs depending on fishin.  After that I'll try and make it out there alot more.  Anyone been fishing north shore fishermans reef area?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Feb 14, 2012, 01:14 PM
I saw one shack set up over there yeaterday morning. They never moved..... :-\
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ifinderH20 on Feb 15, 2012, 04:20 PM
Where's fishermans reef?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Feb 15, 2012, 04:31 PM
I fished the basin from 9-1 today. Fish are scattered so keep moving. 1 walleye and 52 yellows.

Here are some pics from today and a couple prior trips.

Where's your report Buckeye?  ;)


YTD: 1741 yellows, 4 walleyes, 5 catfish


(http://i39.tinypic.com/14ipt7q.jpg)


(http://i43.tinypic.com/fkceig.jpg)


(http://i43.tinypic.com/50qofo.jpg)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Feb 15, 2012, 04:34 PM
Where's fishermans reef?


Northshore across from island.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: iccy on Feb 15, 2012, 05:01 PM
Healthy looking walleye right there!  Hope to make it up there a couple afternoons next week.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: buckeye24 on Feb 16, 2012, 01:21 AM
Heres my post Luckydog! Fished the big lake ended up with 40 yellows myself and 92 yellows and 3 keeper walleyes total!  ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bassfishineric12 on Feb 16, 2012, 09:48 AM
Looks like a pro took that picture of you and that walleye luckydog   ;D your welcome!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: number905 on Feb 16, 2012, 10:27 PM
Anyone going up Sunday and want to meet up??
Just got a new camera id like to try and see some fish!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bassfishnhunt on Feb 17, 2012, 07:34 AM
When you fish by the pump house where do you park? Do you have to park at Mcintosh and walk from there? A buddy and I are headed up in the morning. Thanks
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Feb 17, 2012, 08:46 AM
There is a little parking lot by the pumphouse to park.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Feb 17, 2012, 08:44 PM
Drove around the lake today.  There is open water just east of Farmers now.  There were a few guys on the small lake and some other guys fishing west of downtown but east of the pump house.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: cyclone on Feb 19, 2012, 07:46 AM
How is the ice?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bassfishnhunt on Feb 19, 2012, 09:55 AM
I was there Saturday and fished by the pump house and the ice was about 6 to 7 inches. I drilled a lot of holes and it was pretty consistant.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: adam on Feb 20, 2012, 05:51 PM
Any weekend reports on yellows and ice thickness over the weekend?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nitro1 on Feb 20, 2012, 08:29 PM
Was out from pump house Sunday, ice was a consistent 7 inches.  Drilled about fourty holes. Ended the day with 2 large cats, 13 yellows, 3 eyes. Alot of shacks scattered along north shore.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jumbo chaser on Feb 21, 2012, 08:41 PM
Anyone been on clear today and how did rain effect ice there hope it snowed not rain  ;D ;D ;D Any report would be great thanks guys . Good Luck and be safe!!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icyclone on Feb 27, 2012, 06:13 PM
does anybody have eyes on the ice? i'm plannin on headin up in a week or so, should I be bringin a shack or a boat?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 28, 2012, 01:48 PM
After this rain and wind I'd stick a fork in it. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 641cfrank on Feb 29, 2012, 12:40 AM
x2
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: cyclone on Feb 29, 2012, 06:06 AM
tha thee tha thee thaa thee thaaaat allll folks!  Seems like we never even started the season and now its pretty much done
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 29, 2012, 12:52 PM
Ive been trying to kill enough brain cells thru alcohol abuse to block this winter from memory.  Hopefully next year we are driving out by the 15th of Dec at the latest.  Rain we got the past few days has brought up the rivers so it looks next week when the 50s hit there will be eyes in the bucket.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ASATMillerbluegill on Mar 02, 2012, 09:36 PM
Is Farmers Beach still safe? Thinking of heading up in the am. Thanks
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ASATMillerbluegill on Mar 03, 2012, 09:57 AM
Mcintosh has a lot of open water, but farmers beach looks fine from the truck. No one is on the lake, and my weather app says the wind is 29-37. I'm not going out w no body else on, so I'm driving for silver.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bassfishineric on Mar 04, 2012, 08:19 PM
Just wondering if there is open water at the grate in ventura yet?
Thanks!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Mar 05, 2012, 05:07 AM
 The ventura marsh is so low that it's gonna take awhile before it starts to flow over the grate again.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icyclone on Mar 06, 2012, 11:12 AM
well it appears the hardwater season's over, does anybody know where the walleye like to spawn in clear lake? i know the conditions they spawn on, but where in the lake?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ratherBfishN on Mar 07, 2012, 10:48 AM
Bummed to hear the hardwater season is over so soon.  Sure wish the ice would have held up until the 13th or so.  Thanks to all of you guys who shared your opinions, advice and expertise on fishing, ice conditions, baits, etc.  It was the highlight of my day to read your updates and posts.  Especially loved the pics!

Crappiebuster:  still killing brain cells?!  Do ya feel lost, like too much time on your hands with nothin' to do?  I think it's called WITHDRAWAL.  Haha. It'll be ok....only 9 short months to go.

Luckydog: I thought for sure you'd hit 2000 yellows this season.  You tore it up!  When I grow up, I want to be like you!  Tee-hee

Till next season...happy fishing!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Mar 07, 2012, 07:38 PM
Imma Cubs fan also so I have that saying burned into my brain...............  "Theres always next year"
Hopefully mother nature conforms a bit better than the Cubbies though. ;D

Question above about walleyes spawning in Clear................. ..................Spaw ning success in that lake is close to 0% it relies on stocking basically to maintain the walleye population............ ...They stack up at the outlet though during spawning time thats on the east end of the lake.  You cant miss it because you will see about 20 boats and at least 20 waders fishing the heck outta it.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icyclone on Mar 07, 2012, 11:33 PM
thanks CB, the plan is to go out this sunday, around where is the outlet? hardly fished the lake and have never really left farmers :)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icyclone on Mar 08, 2012, 04:52 PM
nevermind i found it, the first couple maps i tried weren't showin it, but google earth showed it :)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Mar 08, 2012, 05:48 PM
Prolly wont be any water going over the lowhead this year but anywhere north or south of that on the eastern shore should work.........Shes low as heck maybe even a record low we need a few good rains to get her up a tad.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Mar 09, 2012, 09:23 AM
   It's definitely low. I stopped on the Ventura marsh grade yesterday. The water is about 20" below the flow over boards. I talked to the DNR. He said they ran out of water last year trying to dredge a channel in the marsh so they can drain it perodically to keep the carp population down. The water must of been low enough to kill the carp. There's hundreds of dead carp frozen in the ice. It's gonna get pretty smelly when it warms up next week.
   It looks like by the end of next week the big lake will be all open.   
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Mar 09, 2012, 09:21 PM
   It's definitely low. I stopped on the Ventura marsh grade yesterday. The water is about 20" below the flow over boards. I talked to the DNR. He said they ran out of water last year trying to dredge a channel in the marsh so they can drain it perodically to keep the carp population down. The water must of been low enough to kill the carp. There's hundreds of dead carp frozen in the ice. It's gonna get pretty smelly when it warms up next week.
   It looks like by the end of next week the big lake will be all open.

  Eagles-Eagles-Eagles Everywhere.  More Eagles than you can shake a stick at!That's what  Ventura Marsh looked like about 4:30 today. Counted 51 or 52 on the ice + about 15 in 1 tree and 10 or so in another on the southside. They will sure help get rid of the dead carp. hope for a slow melt so they can eat more
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Mar 22, 2012, 06:49 PM
Looks like there gonna just leave the carp to decompose naturally.

http://globegazette.com/news/local/dnr-dead-carp-at-ventura-marsh-will-be-left-to/article_68729f18-7457-11e1-9d76-001871e3ce6c.html 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: notime on Dec 15, 2012, 03:39 PM
bump
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icyclone on Dec 15, 2012, 04:51 PM
thanks for bringin this one back to the top, i'd given up on it, is the lake capped or is there just no hope?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Dec 15, 2012, 08:23 PM
Had ice across the small lake earlier in the week but I would imagine now it is wide open again.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 15, 2012, 08:35 PM
I fished it wed. and thursday and my guides bro fished it friday. The fishing has been good but the ice is a little soft. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Dec 16, 2012, 06:26 AM
Nice rain we had...
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: walleyewarrior50595 on Dec 16, 2012, 06:03 PM
Thinking on maybe giving it a try this Saturday,  Iaeye do you think there'll be fishable ice by then and if so where on the lake? Hoping it'll be worth the hour + drive north.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 16, 2012, 07:07 PM
Things are looking good. I'll be posting reports later this week.  I'll get back on this site later to post the current ice conditions.  I also do live audio reports on the ice team website.  Check back later this week maybe Thursday and I let you know what the ice are looking like.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Shrades on Dec 17, 2012, 09:10 AM
That would be great if you could. I'm thinking about going up Friday.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 17, 2012, 02:57 PM
1/2 the lake is open yet in various small locations use extreme caution if you are venturing out this weekend.  They are calling for snow the next 3 days so a light blanket may cover up the bad ice.  I found good ice off of farmers beach, a little over 3 inches.  Will try and make it out tommorow morning once it builds a little more overnite.  Thinking it might be okay for quads and smaller skid houses next weekend "IF" the forecast holds true. It will be a nice gift for the new year.....  Stay safe boys...... :tipup:

Theres a view of how low the lake is near farmers beach.... Plenty of parking this year ;D
(http://i46.tinypic.com/2iln86p.jpg)

(http://i49.tinypic.com/34ilfyp.jpg)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SpoonieLuv on Dec 17, 2012, 05:08 PM
Plenty of parking! Bhahahaahaha ;D Until some d-bag blocks the whole road. lol
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: reit38 on Dec 17, 2012, 08:45 PM
cant wait to beat you up there this weekend and block it off  :P
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SpoonieLuv on Dec 17, 2012, 09:38 PM
How about you don't go to work tomarrow and we both just park on the beach!  ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 17, 2012, 10:36 PM
Got my tow strap ready. ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: number905 on Dec 18, 2012, 10:33 AM
I know its still pretty early, but do you guys think we could be ice fishing on clear lake by this weekend? I saw the weather forecast for this week looks promising.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SpoonieLuv on Dec 18, 2012, 11:43 AM
To early? Hell, if I had a fishin' partner today I would be out there NOW. Damn, work always getting in the way. :)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: reit38 on Dec 18, 2012, 04:07 PM
gonna have to jump on the early boat myself - not a fan of getting wet
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: toofuss on Dec 18, 2012, 04:49 PM
I think this weekend will be a go unless the.wife has other plans. which she probably does lol. oh well guess i will have to wait till a week from today
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Dec 18, 2012, 06:15 PM
Is the bite still a dawn & sunset bite like always or is it a anytime bite
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icyclone on Dec 18, 2012, 07:08 PM
crappiebuster did you go out this morning? if so, what did the ice off farmers measure?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icyclone on Dec 18, 2012, 07:11 PM
i ask cuz i'm lookin to drive up tomoro and put a few holes in the lake, not lookin to fish out of a house just myself a sled and a power auger, thoughts?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 18, 2012, 07:34 PM
Didnt gain much overnite its still very marginal. 3 to 3 1/2 bring picks, spud, and rope, arctic armor suit if you have it.  Leave the power auger at home I'd say,when the ice is as thin as it is and the shallowness your dealing with it spooks the heck outta them,hand cranking aint to bad.  Or just wait till this weekend when it should be good and safe depending on snow cover.  :-\ 6-7 fow is all you need this time of year.  Stay safe!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icyclone on Dec 18, 2012, 07:46 PM
yeah i think i'll finally bite the bullet and replace the blades on the old hand auger, i'd tried sharpening them but have never had any luck
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: slammin slabs on Dec 18, 2012, 08:21 PM
Drove by small decked mcintosh looks like lots of soft spots use extreme caution
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fall_waterfowler on Dec 18, 2012, 11:01 PM
What baits & jigs tend to work the best for an all-in-one set-up (crappie, yellows, walleye etc.)?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 19, 2012, 09:41 AM
spoons! or blade baits like a thinfisher!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 19, 2012, 05:47 PM
Hit some softer/thinner spots out off farmers today.  Gonna wait to see what old man winter throws at us.  Anywhere from 1 to 14 inches expected.  Higher amounts and we will be done for the year. :-\
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icyclone on Dec 19, 2012, 08:46 PM
i think i'll hit it friday, i decided to stay home for the day when my parents started sayin i should wear a life jacket when i set foot on that ice and i think it'll be a bit thicker after two more days below-freezing, i think you're bein a little negative bout the snow CB, a nice blanket will reflect sunlight and help us cool off even more, and we'll have a white christmas at that! now last year i found a sweet spot in about 8 feet of water, now with the lake level down a bit, should i hit the same spot or shift farther how onto the lake?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: slammin slabs on Dec 19, 2012, 09:36 PM
Hoping to try some slender spoons out on cl just purchased $40.00 worth and can't wait to try them anyone have any luck with them here
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 19, 2012, 10:55 PM
Went out a bit further and found some spots that were closer to 2 inches.  I'd wait till saturday to be safe.  The fish were in closer. 5-6fow
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Dec 20, 2012, 12:52 AM
i think i'll hit it friday, i decided to stay home for the day when my parents started sayin i should wear a life jacket when i set foot on that ice and i think it'll be a bit thicker after two more days below-freezing, i think you're bein a little negative bout the snow CB, a nice blanket will reflect sunlight and help us cool off even more, and we'll have a white christmas at that! now last year i found a sweet spot in about 8 feet of water, now with the lake level down a bit, should i hit the same spot or shift farther how onto the lake?

icyclone - You are correct that a snow cover will help bring down air temps, but, if there is one lesson I want you to remember as you continue to ice fish is that a heavy blanket of snow does not help with ice making. Heavy snow is the worst enemy and can be very deceiving to many as they think it has to be safe or does not allow people to read the ice. It acts as an insulator & drastically slows down the ice making process. The ice underneath can get quite squishy & unsafe, so PLEASE, keep this in mind.  HEAVY SNOW BAD FOR ICE. COLD & CLEAR GOOD FOR ICE.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Oldbear on Dec 20, 2012, 08:07 AM
Be careful out there CrappieBuster and yes this snow is really gonna goof up the ice process.  At least down my way everything was pretty much open water when it came.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icyclone on Dec 20, 2012, 08:53 AM
ok ok i guess i got a little excited about a white christmas, i know down here in the fort dodge area its pretty heavy, it looks like it was a little lighter up there, now that the main snowfalls happened and its just blowin around, how much is actually on the lake?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 20, 2012, 09:12 AM
We had about an inch or two on the lake to begin with before the big dump.  When that happens it doesnt wanna blow off to easy. We got anywhere from 6-8 inches of the wetter type of snow on top of it :-\ which doesnt like to blow around much either.  Most we can hope for now is that it slushes up and we get some cold cold nights to refreeze that slush and form sh*tty white ice.  Another tragic year. I wont be back over there to check it until after christmas. I think It will still be marginal for foot traffic even then.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 20, 2012, 09:53 AM
Things don't look to bad. I just got off the lake a few minutes ago and some of the snow blew off. We should be ok for fishing this weekend.  I would stick to Farmers or Macintosh. Use a spud bar!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: walleyewarrior50595 on Dec 20, 2012, 10:58 AM
Glad to hear it kevan! Me and a buddy will be coming up Saturday or Sunday. Would it be worth bringing the quikflip 3 for the two of us or should we stay spread out?  I'm 240 and I bet he's a little bigger.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Dec 20, 2012, 11:54 AM
I would spread out.... It does not look the best
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SpoonieLuv on Dec 20, 2012, 12:41 PM
I would think by Sunday things should be fairly firm, depends on how much snow stays on the ice.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 20, 2012, 01:57 PM
Things are going to be pretty good by the weekend but still be safe and use caution.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 21, 2012, 03:26 PM
Looks like we dodged a bullet.  Ice is pretty darn clean 3-5 1/2in and building quick offf farmers beach.  The ramp got blown in good but beings the lake is so low someone could blade it off really easy beings the drifts dont even make it to the ice.  Just nice sandy beach under all that snow.  If the DNR was nice they would do that ;)  Itd be the best christmas present EVER :tipup:

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: xplicitgtp on Dec 21, 2012, 03:55 PM
Full reports on fish and ice from those of you going
Out tomorrow. Hoping to come up Sunday
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bassfishineric12 on Dec 22, 2012, 03:29 PM
Thinking about going out tomorrow wondering how the ice looked today and how every one did?? Thanks!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 22, 2012, 05:12 PM
Don't go out to far off farmers. Find the start of six foot and poke around there. Ice is 4-6 still bring your picks though. They're hitting smaller minnows.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bassfishineric12 on Dec 22, 2012, 07:44 PM
Any action around macintosh??
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: HANDLINE2 on Dec 23, 2012, 08:54 AM
We caught a lot of fish there yesterday, yellows and crappie.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: xplicitgtp on Dec 23, 2012, 01:05 PM
Ice reports?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: walleyewarrior50595 on Dec 23, 2012, 01:12 PM
Walked out a couple hundred yards off farmers yesterday ice was never shy of 4 and as thick as six
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crouch2 on Dec 23, 2012, 04:54 PM
Fished off Macintosh today 10 till 2  1 little walleye 1 dinky yellow had a lot of lookers but short slow bites soild 5 inches of ice
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Dec 23, 2012, 06:37 PM
Fished big lake today. 3 hours 74yellows and few crappie mixed in ( all crappie released) don't see much sense in keeping them when we had a bucket of yellows.

Older son caught a keeper walleye this morning.

Good luck
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: xplicitgtp on Dec 23, 2012, 06:43 PM
Where is this "farmers" island? Never been to cl going up tomorrow. What's the best way park and get to it
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ed4 on Dec 23, 2012, 07:15 PM
Its on the southwest side of the main lake. Not sure the name of the road you turn off to get there.

I too am heading up tomorrow in the morning. We will be fishing off of Farmers. Has the bite been best off of waxies or minnows?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Dec 23, 2012, 08:04 PM
Where is this "farmers" island? Never been to cl going up tomorrow. What's the best way park and get to it
   Here's the gps coord to farmers beach    N43 06 617    W093 26 884  if that helps.  the island is about a mi east?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: xplicitgtp on Dec 23, 2012, 09:19 PM
Ok, not sure where I came up with that it was an island :) Thanks!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: servicce on Dec 23, 2012, 09:26 PM
I have to ask,,where at on the big lake,,and more importantly, what were you using?  I was on McIntosh in the A.M. and couldn't catch a yellow to save my rear,,,did catch a dozen crappie, smallest was just under 11"
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Dec 23, 2012, 10:05 PM
Fished big lake today. 3 hours 74yellows and few crappie mixed in ( all crappie released) don't see much sense in keeping them when we had a bucket of yellows.

Older son caught a keeper walleye this morning.

Good luck

Didn't happened unless you post pictures ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: walleyewarrior50595 on Dec 23, 2012, 10:27 PM
Farmers was flat out not worth it saturday. Only iced a dozen.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SpoonieLuv on Dec 24, 2012, 10:01 AM
Farmers was good on Sunday. Key is to drill alot of holes and hop around until you find them. If you just drill 4 holes and sit in your shanty you probably are not going to catch alot. I was told numerous times not to go to Farmers, but we did anyway and caught more and bigger yellows then on the little lake. We fished 5-7 fow and had good luck on jigging spoon with waxies, anyway caught the more aggressive fish. Marked tons of fish on the little lake and Farmers, most would not bite, kinda finicky with the NE wind. Downsizing didn't work well, we caught more with aggresive jigging spoon action. I can't stress enough the importance of pre-drilling a bunch of holes and giving them time to settle down after you drill in 6ft of water, then you can hole hop, if we didnt mark a fish in 30 seconds then we would move. Sometimes a hole 10-15 ft away is all the diffence. Good luck.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 24, 2012, 12:47 PM
X2 keep on the move. Good work guys!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 24, 2012, 01:15 PM
Getting about time to bring the houses out. Middle or end of the week I'm thinking.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: xplicitgtp on Dec 24, 2012, 01:36 PM
Spoon what did you end up with today? I was up at Macintosh fishes one spot with 10 Dow and one with 8
Gill pills and pk spoons no bites didn't even mark anything I would say for sure was a
Fish, Ice was good 6" too windy for me to be out of the shack hopping around
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Dec 24, 2012, 02:16 PM
Shanty

have i not posted enough pics?

4-5 fow
buckshot spoons w/ spikes.

Good luck
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bigwally on Dec 24, 2012, 03:48 PM
Whats the ice thickness on Clear Lake?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 24, 2012, 07:26 PM
3-7"
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: cyclone on Dec 25, 2012, 09:56 PM
Any ATV's out yet?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 25, 2012, 11:53 PM
The ice today was 5-10" The fishing was pretty good. We caught 1 keeper eye, 6 crappie, and 15 Yellows in a few hours. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: number905 on Dec 26, 2012, 10:23 AM
Any ATV's out yet?

Did not see any ATV's, but I did see a snowmobile out on Tuesday. It was going pretty close to the banks on little lake.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 26, 2012, 11:43 AM
Atvs would be fine.  Couple days prolly be driving the truck out ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: northerner on Dec 26, 2012, 09:23 PM
8" of ice on Billys Reef no fish
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: notime on Dec 29, 2012, 06:13 AM
any new reports
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Dec 29, 2012, 07:01 AM
Most of the fishing is being done in the little lake right now.
Mix of crappies perch and small eyes.
Don't be afraid to leave the crowds and look for fish in the big lake.
Finding a school of unpressured yellows with a mix of crappies is not too hard if drill a bunch of holes and stay mobile.

Focus on 4-6', spoons with spikes.

Good luck
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bassfishineric12 on Dec 29, 2012, 12:53 PM
Went out today and brought three guys with me that were pretty new to ice fishing. Fishing was pretty slow in front of macintosh prolly ended up with 17 yellows 1 dink walleye and 1crappie. It almost seemed like we couldnt find a school I dont think we caught more than one fish out of each hole. Im sure taking four ppl with one dull hand augeer didnt help to much either. Going to try a different spot tonight
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: reit38 on Dec 29, 2012, 04:51 PM
any new reports. looking for a new place to try put tomorrow for the first ice trip of the year
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fall_waterfowler on Dec 29, 2012, 07:52 PM
Is it safe for atvs or side x sides over there yet?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jagerdog on Dec 29, 2012, 08:06 PM
The vanilla gorilla and I shook the dust out of our gear and hit MacIntosh this morning from 930 to 1130.  We ended up with 34 keepers.  A few crappies and perch mixed in.  All in all, it was good to get things going.  We used forage minnow jigs with waxworms, power bair, and gulp minnows.  Wax worms were the best.

We cleaned fish (I cleaned the fish due to him lacking opposable thumbs), set up for fish tacos, and headed up to Keunnens Quarry.  We got 6 keepers up there and threw back some dinks and 2 nice largemouths.  Fish tacos were excellent, and I'll probably head to Farmer's in the morning.  He is a degenerate Vikqueen fan, so he'll be getting his lavender clothes on for the game.  Overall, a good start....
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 29, 2012, 08:40 PM
Poor purple fans are gonna be in for an a$$ mopping tommorow!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Dec 29, 2012, 10:25 PM
Is there 7" of ice now. I mean AVT wortherthy yet?! Thanks.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: walleyes4*u on Dec 30, 2012, 05:50 AM
Do people even read these posts???? They just come on and ask what was posted two or three posts aga....yes there is 7" and yes you can drive atv's......fishing is good early morning..... ::)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Dec 30, 2012, 02:56 PM
People are also proving they can drive trucks and SUV's on *maybe* 10"   ::) (I wouldn't recommend that)!   Bite was great until 8:30 AM  only found about a dozen between then and 11:00. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 30, 2012, 03:09 PM
Where are they driving out at farmers?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Dec 30, 2012, 06:39 PM
No, when I drove by there all vehicles but one were in the lot, the other on the shore.  This was Macintosh (SP)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Dec 31, 2012, 04:28 AM
Poor purple fans are gonna be in for an a$$ mopping tommorow!

Hey CB! Who won the game :P
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: huntaholic on Dec 31, 2012, 08:28 PM
Seen several trucks on the ice this morning. Fished out from McIntosh from 8-noon. Moved around alot and couldn't seem to get away from the smaller fish. 100+ fish day but only kept 3 of em. 5-12 fow with chartrues frosty spoons. Anything around 15-20fow seemed to be stacked with 4" yellows. If your marking piles of fish at those depths its most likely the little guys. Lots of permenants starting to come out.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 01, 2013, 01:15 AM
It's on.........Let the show commence!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Jan 01, 2013, 02:54 AM
Breaking in 2013 the right way!
Lady's night in my shack this weekend ;D Girls drink for free :o
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Jan 01, 2013, 03:23 AM
Almost forgot.... Happy New years to ya all! :tipup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 01, 2013, 11:20 AM
Well, it's refreshing to hear of reports of crappie & perch mixed in since the dredge. It's nice having other opportunities to catch something between 10:00 am & 3:30 pm. Can Clear Lake sustain a healthy crappie fishery with the yellows or will the yellows always have the upper edge due to pure numbers?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: codewordcs1 on Jan 01, 2013, 07:42 PM
I think if everyone keeps taking at least a 100 yellows every outing and share their spots with the masses maybe clear lake could become an excellent crappie/perch/walleye destination. Keep up the good work guys and keep every yellow you catch and help others catch them. :D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Jan 02, 2013, 12:31 AM
Could not agree with ya more! Take a basket of zebra mussels too for dinner @)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MidnightRambler on Jan 03, 2013, 11:38 AM
Remember December of 2012, when the Clear Lake threads stayed at the top because nowhere south of there had good ice?  ;D

This is shaping up to be a very good ice season in January and February (early March, please?) for the southern two thirds of Iowa. Too bad this December was almost as bad as last December.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: addicted on Jan 03, 2013, 07:00 PM
Can anyone recommend a place to stay near clear lake? Is there anywhere that has a place for fish cleaning?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Jan 03, 2013, 10:41 PM
The best western is a nice place and has fair rates for off season plus its only 2 miles from the lake. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: notime on Jan 05, 2013, 06:17 AM
How's the bite
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: panman79 on Jan 05, 2013, 06:24 AM
We went off Farmers last nite to try it out.  We ended up with 10 yellows.  Marked a ton, just didnt stay out long.  Headed out there this morning!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: panman79 on Jan 05, 2013, 09:20 AM
Well no luck this morning.  Marked fish.......just looked at it.  Tried everything.  How did everyone else do?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 05, 2013, 10:24 AM
It's been a funky year so far over there.  Havent got them exactly dialed in YET.
Bottle bass have been hitting hard and steady though. @)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: panman79 on Jan 05, 2013, 11:58 AM
Ha ha!  The ones we are catching have been nice sized?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nitro1 on Jan 05, 2013, 10:09 PM
Bunch of crappies, a few yellows and a couple of perch. 18 fow. Staying away from the crowd. Whats working for crappies, small glow blue with minnow head.  ;) :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coldfisherman on Jan 06, 2013, 03:45 PM
Quite the population explosion on the little lake this weekend. We're gonna need street signs if this keeps up.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Jan 06, 2013, 08:35 PM
It would be nice to see everybody release the Perch. We kept a few the other day and there isn't much meat on them.  If they could make it one or two more years we would have a great Perch Fishery. Most of the White Crappie are 9-10" Its a lot of fun to catch fish other than Yellows.  We fished 15 ft. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 07, 2013, 09:53 PM
To late filletted about 15 ten inch perch.  And 50 crappies. ;D
Tasty dammmm tasty. 6 keeper eyes too.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 641cfrank on Jan 07, 2013, 10:34 PM
don't shoot me for asking but what are you guys seeing for ice thickness on the little lake? drove by during my lunch break today and couldn't believe how many permys are out. i haven't even been able to get out yet this season... been busy working on a new house and working for a paycheck... going to take a day off and get the permy out wednesday hopefully.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coldfisherman on Jan 07, 2013, 11:20 PM
We were on 18" of ice today.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Jan 08, 2013, 09:25 AM
When your hungry your hungry!  We've caught piles of perch and not one was a true 10" Good work on the eyes buster!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: FEZHUNT on Jan 08, 2013, 12:30 PM
We're sitting on 10" of ice and have found as little as 7" when moving around.  Be careful if you're driving out.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 08, 2013, 12:45 PM
13 to 16 inches in most areas it seems. One of them beast diesels will be the first ones to find the seven inches.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Jan 08, 2013, 06:46 PM
I need to get up and fish there.  Some guys from work are on the north shore line putting rocks on the shores.  They said it has been pretty busy up there as far as people fishing.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: huntaholic on Jan 08, 2013, 11:39 PM
Made it out there this evening. Best crappie bite I've been on in a LONG TIME :o
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bassfishineric12 on Jan 09, 2013, 01:45 PM
Where was the 7 inches of ice at?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coldfisherman on Jan 09, 2013, 10:28 PM
Made it out there this evening. Best crappie bite I've been on in a LONG TIME :o

We were out last night too. Only until 6:00 but we got about 20 crappies and a half dozen perch. No giant sized but easily filleted size. I keep hoping to get on a good yellow bite. I'm going hunting down South this weekend and may move to the big lake off Farmers when I get back. I've always had good luck with the yellows close to the island.

Good fishing everybody!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bassfishineric12 on Jan 11, 2013, 02:05 PM
Hows it looking after all that rain?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 641cfrank on Jan 11, 2013, 10:33 PM
Hows it looking after all that rain?

Set my camper on 16 inches of solid black ice on Wednesday... Don't think itll go anywhere to fast. I was out there during the rain yesterday but I didn't get out there today... Hopefully its still good anyway lol
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: notime on Jan 12, 2013, 01:35 PM
how's the ice since the rain and warm temps
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Jan 12, 2013, 03:09 PM
Any reports from today???  I know it was super windy today but figured someone might have tried it.  Thinking about giving it a try tomorrow.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 641cfrank on Jan 12, 2013, 07:58 PM
There was a LOT of people out on the little lake today. For me the bite was best around 2o'clock. There was a lot of slush in front of the boat ramp at Macintosh... It was freezing back up but still giving some people problems. My buddy had his front tire go through and got stuck... Had to have someone pull him out. Should be frozen back up tomorrow though.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Jan 12, 2013, 08:15 PM
Thanks for the info.  I think we are just going to walk out anyway.  Probably try the big lake then move to the little.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: notime on Jan 12, 2013, 08:25 PM
thanks for the info. will be out there tomorrow
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jagerdog on Jan 13, 2013, 10:51 AM
I fished Friday and Saturday evenings and did well on the Little Lake.  Fish weren't really hot, but I'd catch one every few minutes.  After 20 fish, I'd toss 'em back.  One keeper walleye (released) and lost one in the hole (long distance release?) Friday.  All crappies yesterday.  I was in 21 feet of water.  30 feet away was 14', and I caught one 3" perch. 

I never really found a pattern that worked all the time.  I switched jigs often, and switched from wax worms, spikes, Gulp!, and minnow heads.  It seemed like every time I switched, I got fish for a while, then they cooled off.  I had planned to fish this morning, but slept in, and will cook Friday's fish for lunch.  Probably back out there tonight.  The ramp at MacIntosh is really slushy, but the ice is excellent.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nitro1 on Jan 13, 2013, 08:01 PM
In 20 fow, no bites.  Marked a few and caught a nice perch after two hours.  Hesitated to move but glad I did.  Moved to 15 fow and took home 12 nice crappies and marked a ton of suspended fish.  Very cold packing up and not really much wind.  Can't wait till tomorrow to hit er again!!! ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Jan 13, 2013, 08:23 PM
went out this a.m caught about 15 fish total. crappies and a few perch. Not a single yellow though. very suprised at that. Where were you fishing at? little lake im assuming? tryin to get into some walleye. although catchin crappies and perch arent bad at all. tight lines  :tipup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Jan 13, 2013, 08:29 PM
this isnt as active as it has been in the past. dont know if thats a good thing or bad thing.anybody hooking any walleyes on the little lake? if so what depth?? Mcintosh access is better today. altough stick to the sides and not down the middle. however its problably froze by now. always keep a look out!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Jan 13, 2013, 08:50 PM
Fished the little lake today.  Had decent luck from sunrise till about 10:30 then it really really slowed down.  Caught maybe 5 fish from 10:30 to 3pm when we left.  We were in 8 FOW.  Kept yellows, crappies, and perch.  Caught some real small eyes as well.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Jan 14, 2013, 08:29 AM
Hey

check out the Iowa news section on this website.

The YELLOW BASS BONANZA!!

will be Feb 16th this will be a great event with lots of prizes.

Help me make this the largest ice tourney in Iowa!!!

Thanks
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Jan 14, 2013, 01:38 PM
Planning to head out tomorrow morning. Well that's the plan anyway.






Facebook Page, Iowa Ice Fishing Reports and Conditions. like and share it!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jigspin on Jan 14, 2013, 05:54 PM
I'm  new to ice fishing in this area...how does one go about catching yellow bass on Clear Lake? What depths are typically good for yellows and what kind of baits are you guys catching them on.  Thanks. I've combed through some of this thread and found some useful info already but could use anything.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: DAN03REV on Jan 14, 2013, 08:16 PM
I'm  new to ice fishing in this area...how does one go about catching yellow bass on Clear Lake? What depths are typically good for yellows and what kind of baits are you guys catching them on.  Thanks. I've combed through some of this thread and found some useful info already but could use anything.
Northland forage minnow jigs 1/16 or 1/8 oz. .. i use the orange and the green mostly .. minnow heads or whole .. i ran out of minnows one day so i cut the eyeballs from the fish i had and kept on catchin em 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: hnd on Jan 14, 2013, 10:02 PM
its pretty easy.  the other night i was on my way up to mn for work from the quad cities.  i stopped at the mcintosh landing and walked out and drilled some holes around the 2 cluster of shanties out there on the little lake.  every hole had fish in it.  every hole had the same size fish in it for me....you had to hop around until i found decent size fish. 

big diamond stuffed with spikes or a spoon with minnow heads and you'll catch them all day long. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jigspin on Jan 14, 2013, 10:20 PM
Thanks guys,

Sorry what do you guys mean by little lake or big lake?
Also a few more ???s...any bait shops around clear lake or any gas stations carry live bait near?
are most guys driving out or walking?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Jan 14, 2013, 10:26 PM
west end-- from Mc Intosh Woods to the grade at Ventura
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jigspin on Jan 15, 2013, 01:56 AM
Can you access Farmers beach area from Cedar Ave on south side of big lake? (can you drive onto the lake from Cedar Ave or do you have to walk).

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: notime on Jan 15, 2013, 05:25 AM
Yes you can. Drive right on the lake at the end of the road
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: BojiHawk on Jan 15, 2013, 10:25 AM
150,000 views on a thread starting half a deacade ago???  Holy Crap...LOL....maybe a new thread is in order or.....something.  But that 5hit is impressive......150K.. ..wow.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: squ1rr31_ on Jan 15, 2013, 12:16 PM
I like having the history to see how the fishing was, new thread would be redundant
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coldfisherman on Jan 15, 2013, 12:24 PM
Drove my wife's car on at Farmers Sun and drove all the way to Macintosh. Easy traveling. Careful if you cross the cut. Stay on the beach.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jigspin on Jan 15, 2013, 12:42 PM
someone mention that there are areators on lake...where are they located? and can you clearly see open water where the areators are.?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 641cfrank on Jan 15, 2013, 02:20 PM
150,000 views on a thread starting half a deacade ago???  Holy Crap...LOL....maybe a new thread is in order or.....something.  But that 5hit is impressive......150K.. ..wow.

I think we need to have some kind of party for the 100 page anniversary when we get there! Lol
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Jan 15, 2013, 02:26 PM
The first aerator is on far east side of the lake in front of the water tower right in downtown Clear Lake, nobody fishes near that one. The other one is located on the west side of the lake southeast of the pump house. You can see the open water and they have signs posted all the way around it to warn people. Everybody seems to be fishing on the Little Lake. You can access the lake at the boat ramp at McIntosh State Park. There's a few houses out on farmers.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Jan 15, 2013, 05:32 PM
Back to fishing.....fished for 3 hours this afternoon caught over 100 yellow kept 72.

All on big lake. spikes and mudbugs

good luck
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: buckeye24 on Jan 15, 2013, 07:58 PM
Kept 36 yellows and one 18 in walleye! Threw at least 2x back. Fished Big Lake.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: dragscreamer on Jan 15, 2013, 09:03 PM
All these people keeping Crappies and Perch are pissin me off so much I'm not goin fishin out there again this year. My dad used to call Clear lake the Dead Sea and it will be well on its way back to that once everyone keeps all them crappies and perch before they get bigger. I wouldn't keep a crappie or a perch unless it was 12'' . So for all you guys keeping those fish just remember why you don't catch many keeper walleyes through the ice over there it's because 4-5 years ago all those big walleyes were biting and eveyone was keeping them.I know this post won't make a difference but that's my opinion .
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Jan 15, 2013, 09:18 PM
Back to fishing.....fished for 3 hours this afternoon caught over 100 yellow kept 72.

All on big lake. spikes and mudbugs

good luck


To bad you didn't keep them all.  Everyone we catch we keep.  Big or small it doesn't matter to us.  Just one less to reproduce in the lake or one less for someone else to take and release in another lake and ruin it.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Jan 16, 2013, 12:46 PM
All these people keeping Crappies and Perch are pissin me off so much I'm not goin fishin out there again this year. My dad used to call Clear lake the Dead Sea and it will be well on its way back to that once everyone keeps all them crappies and perch before they get bigger. I wouldn't keep a crappie or a perch unless it was 12'' . So for all you guys keeping those fish just remember why you don't catch many keeper walleyes through the ice over there it's because 4-5 years ago all those big walleyes were biting and eveyone was keeping them.I know this post won't make a difference but that's my opinion .
Drags right.  Little lake  looks like the island did 4-5 yrs ago.  With temps going down this weekend the inlet between the big and little lake will be froze to the bottom. The boats were dragging bottom going through there this fall. So with all the pan fish being trapped in the little lake it won't take long for all the crappies and perch to get fished out of there. All I 'm saying is use a little commom sense so theres fish to be caught next winter.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Jan 16, 2013, 03:58 PM
F.y.i not all the perch and crappy are in the little lake.
 I have got them in several places out on the big lake this winter.

 But it would be nice to use a little restraint. people don't need to be taking 25 home every night. especially when you have 40 yellow bass you really don't need to keep 3 or 4 crappies and18 inch walleye.

 We had around 40 nice yellow bass today. made the other guy i was with throwback the crappies.

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 16, 2013, 07:03 PM
Seriously, for you guys that get to fish it every other day & keep pulling 50 - 75 fish out of there, how do you eat them all?!  Yes, you freeze them, but seriously, what happens to all the fish the diehards get during a season? I've always wondered. So, I agree, if the yellows are biting good, they're great eating, so keep them & maybe save a few crappie & perch for a change of taste/texture.  But, release the majority of crappie, perch & walleye to get the fishery up to par.

Has Clear Lake ever been this type of crappie fishery that we have seen the past couple years?  Just wondering.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jagerdog on Jan 16, 2013, 07:46 PM
I guess I'll weigh in on the fish issue and give my uneducated opinion after fishing CL for 12 seasons.

     In my opinion, Clear Lake has only two species of game fish that are reproducing naturally - yellows and yellow perch.  I have caught a ton of 3" yellows and perch this season.  not one mini crappie.  The small walleyes are all planted fry in my opinion.  I don't keep walleyes, because I eat yellows.  I like them more than crappies, walleyes, or even perch.  I keep 20 fish (when I keep fish) because that's all I care to clean, I don't think they freeze well, and I can catch more (generally) whenever I want.

     Keeping ice caught fish does not, in my opinion, impact the walleye fishery.  I say this because in the summer, when every man, woman and child on the lake is pulling a crank bait with three trebles, dead walleye fry litter the lake come Monday morning.  many more short walleyes die on a July weekend than keepers come off the lake in January.  In my opinion.

     My only gripe on fish coming off the lake are the guys who have a big fish fry for the softball team or the guys at work, and cook 1000 fillets in a crack, keeping everything they catch for weeks on end.  But, it's a free country.  I ate fish tacos twice this week and yellow bass creole three times.  I take 50 meals of fish out of Clear Lake every winter.  I'd rather not fish it in the summer, with all the pleasure craft and drunken sailors about.  Just my opinion.
 
     I doubt if CL will be a decent perch fishery, based on the fact that I have caught a lot of 7" perch that have to be 3 year class fish.  That means they would have to be at least 5 years old to reach 12".  It won't happen in my opinion.  Just my 2 cents.  I'm a fishermen and I fish that lake hard in the winter.  I can tell you I have caught a couple thousand fish this winter, kept a couple hundred, released the rest.  And I marked 10 times as many fish as I have caught.  If I kept them all, I doubt it would make much difference in the reproduction of the lake game fish.
 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Jan 16, 2013, 08:25 PM
This weekend will be a zoo on the lake.  They are having some snowmobile race and ride all around the lake.  I think I might avoid this weekend and go to the Mississippi river!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 16, 2013, 09:03 PM
Do you know if they are running the race on the big lake?  I assume they are.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Jan 16, 2013, 09:35 PM
nope out of the state park on the little lake.  The only problem is they will be all over even without snow.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 16, 2013, 09:39 PM
Oh cripes!  Thanks.  One of only a few weekends I may be able to get away & get up there & there's that.  Thanks for letting us know, though! I appreciate it.  :)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Jan 16, 2013, 11:48 PM
i dont understand that....basically all of the permys are on the little lake. if anything they should all go off on dodges point. they can park on the frozen sand and they would have the whole lake to themselves! but i suppose they wanna swerve in and out of permys....i suppose i should go buy a fence to put 30ft around circumfrence of my permy haha
tight lines
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nitro1 on Jan 17, 2013, 12:07 AM
Not at the little lake!  Check out... http://thejackrace.com/thejackmap.html.  Shows the location of the race at State Park on Southeast side of big lake.  There will still be a few that ride the little lake.  :icefish:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: goosehntr69 on Jan 17, 2013, 12:08 AM
nope out of the state park on the little lake.  The only problem is they will be all over even without snow.
I belive it will be at Clear Lake State Park, not MacIntosh state park.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Jan 17, 2013, 12:17 AM
good deal! i was just a little confused. good news though! heading out tomorrow morning to see what i can do. trying to find some walleyes. any word on them? what depth there catching them at? also wouldnt mind trying to find some northern. anybody catch any on the little lake?!?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: toothfish on Jan 17, 2013, 08:28 AM
It's been a few years since I fished Clear and I have a few questions about the Clear Lake yellow bass population .

1. Are the yellows taking over ?
2. Do fishermen actually release the smaller yellows  back into the lake ?
3. What is the average size of a "keeper" yellow bass ?
4. Is there a daily limit ?
5. Do some ice fisherman throw "dink" yellows on the ice ?

Thank you ...
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IGLfisherman on Jan 17, 2013, 01:38 PM
It's been a few years since I fished Clear and I have a few questions about the Clear Lake yellow bass population .

1. Are the yellows taking over ?
2. Do fishermen actually release the smaller yellows  back into the lake ?
3. What is the average size of a "keeper" yellow bass ?
4. Is there a daily limit ?
5. Do some ice fisherman throw "dink" yellows on the ice ?

Thank you ...

I'll try to answer some of your questions,,, and this is just my opinion !!!

1.I personally think they are taking over,,,,BUT i think the ice fisherman keep them under control somewhat,,,but it wouldn't take much and they would overtake the lake...

2. Yes some fishermen do release them back,,,bad idea in my mind,, because they are an invasive species !!

3. I would say 8 inches maybe 9..

4.  NO daily limit,,,again invasive species..

5. Yes some do throw them on the ice..  there are also guy's that take hundreds out in a day,,, i see no problem with that...
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ranger185 on Jan 18, 2013, 10:10 AM
We have had a summer home on Clear Lake for several years. Farmers Beach area. Let me take a crack and provide some info for those not familiar with some recent history of the lake.
1. No. They have been in there a long time and it seems to work.
2. Yes.
3. 6 to 8"
4. No limit. People take them out by the bucket full each year and it seems to help keep population down
5. Hope not
A few years ago Ventura Bay (what some call "Little Lake") was dredged. The dredging operation ran for 2 years 24/7. It took the bay from being really shallow to what it is today. Saw a map of it post dredge somewhere (Iowa DNR site?). Looks like a surgeon did it. The idea was to use the bay to filter the water coming in from Ventura Marsh that eventually ends up in the Lake. It worked. The water clarity went from a foot to over three foot in the big lake. When the big boats run during the day it gets churned up but the overall clarity was/is good.
With the clarity came weeds. Lots of them. The area around our dock went from absolutely no weeds to obnoxious weeds. The family complained about all the weeds but I just smiled because, as a fisherman, I knew what that meant for the fish.
Sure enough, the crappies are showing up. And bluegill and perch. Others too.
Not long ago Clear Lake was mentioned by many as the best walleye lake in the state. That didn't last long as the amount of pressure became intense. Everyone came to fish for them plus tournaments nearly every weekend. Those boys know how to catch walleyes and with the limited amount of structure in the lake the keeper size fish didn't stand a chance. The walleye stocking program is intense and with the weeds now maybe they will bounce back. There seems to be a ton of little walleye in the lake.
It would be nice to see the crappies continue to thrive but the ice fishing pressure is going to take its toll. Unlike Minnesota where there are a zillion lakes and the ice fisherman spread out there are no alternatives around Clear. It will get pounded, especially with the lake way down and some of the weed cover dried up. I'm sure those skinny little 9" crappies are flying out of there by the hundreds and its too bad.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 18, 2013, 12:11 PM
Thanks Ranger. Spot on. If the yellows are biting good. keep the yellows & throw back the crappies.

With weed growth so abundant now including in a bit of deeper waters (at least a couple feet more down), do you anticipate the walleyes reproducing to better help sustain in Clear Lake. Will they reproduce. I don't think it will ever be a self-sustaining lake, but maybe help the numbers & classes.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: notime on Jan 19, 2013, 09:21 AM
how is the bite this week
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Jan 19, 2013, 11:43 PM
Today was very very windy.  Lake was packed full amd pretty slushy.  Anyways I on my way in tonight I found a folding chair...if it'd yours let me know. Good luck
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: TRCrappie on Jan 20, 2013, 09:03 AM
Was wondering why they do not stocks lakes that get hit hard every year with more crappies, bluegills, and perch yearly to try and help sustain populations. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Jan 20, 2013, 11:00 AM
Was wondering why they do not stocks lakes that get hit hard every year with more crappies, bluegills, and perch yearly to try and help sustain populations.


The fish numbers are there you just have to find them.  If they were super easy to catch everytime they would get fished out.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: toothfish on Jan 21, 2013, 08:12 AM
Thanks to those who responded to me questions.
Not sure if there would be any natural walleye reproduction in Clear, but doesn't the DNR stock walleye on a regular basis ?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: TRCrappie on Jan 21, 2013, 11:51 AM
Not even from their.  Just looked like the ranger worked for the DNR and was wondering why they don't stock places that get hit hard every year to make sure populations stay up all the time.  Some place get fished out from the pressure and it takes a couple years to rebound.  Just wondering if they could put fish in every year to avoid the downtime and keep good amounts of all year classes.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 21, 2013, 04:50 PM
Boatloads of smalleyes in Clear Lake soon as theyre 14 they gone.  It will never make it back to what it was.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ranger185 on Jan 21, 2013, 04:53 PM
I'm not a ranger or with DNR. My boat is a Ranger 185VS. The lake has a state hatchery on the north side of the lake (east a ways from the Surf Ballroom). They harvest walleye eggs each spring from native fish, do their hatchery thing and stock it. I think they also stock other lakes from that hatchery as well? As far as natural reproduction am not sure about that one. You would think there would be some.
My main point was the the grass from improved water clarity has changed Clear over what is was. When the water comes back up after the drought ends it will be even more so. Who know how long that will be.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 21, 2013, 05:10 PM
Dnr needs to sink some crappie cribs/condos in the deeper water. Or get a few dumptruckloads of boulders out there when the ice gets thick enough. They do this at lakes allover the midwest.  Why not on Clear?  I am sure local businesses would be willing to put up some money also.  Prolly just a pipe dream though.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: squ1rr31_ on Jan 21, 2013, 06:07 PM
I would be all for the crappie cribs but its a pretty shallow lake. I don't understand how Upper Red Lake hasn't had more boat/crib accidents. Some of those cribs are 6 feet tall, that lake is just as shallow as Clear.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Jan 21, 2013, 06:16 PM
That is exactly why you will not see crappie structures.
Boaters safety over fish structures.

They have been easy enough to target why do you need structures?

Weed growth in the lake will continue helping with survival of future year classes.

The lake is extremely healthy. Walleyes are in there fellas, just very well fed.

Caught a couple this fall with as many as 7 small yellow bass in there stomachs.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Jan 21, 2013, 07:51 PM
Saw some guys today fishing just west of the Island.  First activity there that I have seen all winter.  Also saw a truck over on the east side of the lake as well. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nitro1 on Jan 22, 2013, 10:54 PM
Finally had enough time to get there in the early afternoon to move to the big lake.  Wow what a difference !!  Instantly started hitting the yellows. Guessing I took home at least 60 yellows!    Fun, fun, fun!!!  Also managed to get a few crappies and a perch.  Lost a nice walleye at the hole, looked keeper size but they always look bigger before they surface! No one even close, saw a few west and north of the island!!!!! ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 22, 2013, 11:02 PM
Being from the Iowa City area, I presume there is no longer any snow cover on Clear, at least where it's a problem, correct? Looking to maybe make a trip up there this weekend if my buddy's schedule works. Are people pretty much roaming the lake with about any vehicle. Thanks.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 23, 2013, 12:36 PM
No snow cover besides miniscule drifting between the shacks.  You can get anywhere on the lake with a car or truck.  Or if your not one to drive on the ice you could drag anywhere.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: notime on Jan 23, 2013, 06:51 PM
Starting to see action over by the island
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 23, 2013, 07:15 PM
So whats the story at the island? Havent ice fished that in years.  Used to be a damm city out there.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Jan 23, 2013, 07:29 PM
Was working on the north shore line today putting rock in.  5 or 6 shacks on the west side of the island and one north of the island.  Saw a couple guys trying the east side today but they only stayed for about an hour and then they left.  Decent amount of guys by the pump house today.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Jan 23, 2013, 09:48 PM
only 3 perm's west of island   probly seen friend & me in pickups  jump around and only marked 1 fish between us  drove straight across to n shore  with no fish marked   I did find 1 spot after 4pm and I caught 7 yb,2dink eyes & 24" cat
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Jan 24, 2013, 06:35 AM
Ya I saw you two driving around about 200 to 300 yards off the north shore.  We thought look at those crazy guys without a tent!!!! ;D   That blasted wind really came up in the afternoon!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Jan 24, 2013, 12:22 PM
 ya it was rough out there even fishin out of pickup.  that little skiff of was moving & would skim over our holes plus swirl around in our face. we both had our port. with us but we were ice trolling-trying to find active fish. it was so windy I had to go to a heavier jigging spoon just to keep my line tight.   if you were down below you were half way protected.   wish you could leave us a path so we could acess that part of lake from shore without pulling our ports over the rocks
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Jan 24, 2013, 08:32 PM
There was open water on the north side where we were.  The ice had heaved and opened the water up.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Jan 24, 2013, 08:48 PM
east of where you were working & out about 1/4 mi+  friend was about same distance out down by Reilly Point
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 25, 2013, 09:03 AM
No snow cover besides miniscule drifting between the shacks.  You can get anywhere on the lake with a car or truck.  Or if your not one to drive on the ice you could drag anywhere.

 ;)Thanks Buster. I appreciate it. I am coming up Sat. afternoon & Sunday to rip some lips & hopefully my bud & I can do our share by lessening the yellow population a bit. With young kids, I don't get out as much as I would like with only a couple times a season.

Depth's & roaming fish: Can anyone please share what depth we should look for during the day & also after dark. I presume they migrate deeper during the night. Thanks all.

Rip some lips & be safe!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 25, 2013, 10:15 AM
If you are after Crappies and perch i'd suggest 15-20+ fow in the little lake.  Yellow bass drive out from the pumphouse if you have a 4x4 and work your way west down the shoreline.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 641cfrank on Jan 25, 2013, 10:59 AM
So what's the story about the a vehicle going through the ice on the little lake last night? Heard it was a 17 year old guy. Anyone have more info about what happened?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 25, 2013, 01:03 PM
So what's the story about the a vehicle going through the ice on the little lake last night? Heard it was a 17 year old guy. Anyone have more info about what happened?

I was wondering the same thing, especially since I plan on going up this weekend!?  The paper said it was 200 yds to the E of McIntosh St Park.  I presume this is in the Big Lake. It also eluded to the channel so don't know if was going from the Little to the Big. Was there an aerator over there or something that he got too close to?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 25, 2013, 01:05 PM
If you are after Crappies and perch i'd suggest 15-20+ fow in the little lake.  Yellow bass drive out from the pumphouse if you have a 4x4 and work your way west down the shoreline.

Thanks again. You're talking Farmer's Beach (W shoreline), correct?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Jan 25, 2013, 01:29 PM
So what's the story about the a vehicle going through the ice on the little lake last night? Heard it was a 17 year old guy. Anyone have more info about what happened?
Here's the story on it. You would think the ice would be thick enough through there. Any input why the ice would be thin in that spot?

http://globegazette.com/news/local/no-injury-in-lake-rescue/article_4f2d5088-66b5-11e2-ba9e-0019bb2963f4.html
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: junior71991 on Jan 25, 2013, 07:13 PM
I didnt see exactly where the car went through the ice at. But my understanding was only the tires broke through, I know the whole car didnt go through the ice. Anywhere around the channel is a no-go zone. Just use some sense.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 25, 2013, 07:14 PM
Jeez boys stay away from the channel especially the east side.  Get a strong west wind when its open it turns that ice into crape real fast.  How many times are people gonna dump it there before they put up thin ice markers?  Its mainly common sense.  But I guess if you dont know the lake your rolling the dice right.  Glad theyre okay.  Coulda been alot worse.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Jan 25, 2013, 09:22 PM
Ice must have been real thin being that car can't weigh a 1000lbs at the very most.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 26, 2013, 09:34 AM
Ice must have been real thin being that car can't weigh a 1000lbs at the very most.

That's what put the fright into me. It wasn't like it was a 3/4 ton truck that dropped the tires. Whew!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 26, 2013, 12:17 PM
Ive noticed a large increase of the muskrat population over there in the past year.  Those muskrats are bad news for near shore ice. Almost walked into a muskrat dive hole last year and that was over 100yds off the rushes.  May have to start trapping again even if rats are 2$.  I will start growing my trappers beard now for next season.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Jan 30, 2013, 01:47 PM
The Yellow Bass are still on Fire.  Check out this video.  Yellow Bass Bonanza Yellow Bass Bonanza (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LwvXfW03tAo&feature=youtu.be)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ripNlips83 on Jan 30, 2013, 01:55 PM
Was getting 9-10 $ out of rats >16"   Jumbos were $12
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Jan 30, 2013, 07:48 PM
Anybody know where the vehicle went through?  Saw it on clear lake but didn't say where
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Jan 30, 2013, 08:10 PM
Over in front of sandpiper east of the arator.

Guys you can't just drive everywhere want. use some common sense.

Check that......you can but itll cost you big bucks..

How many of you are fishing the bonanza?

Its going to be a great opportunity to win some awesome stuff!

Thanks
Chris
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jigspin on Jan 30, 2013, 08:42 PM
swhere are the bigger yellow bass? big lake or little? any size to them.  I was out last week didnt fare so well . all I got were small yellows
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coldfisherman on Jan 30, 2013, 08:45 PM
The Yellow Bass are still on Fire.  Check out this video.  Yellow Bass Bonanza Yellow Bass Bonanza (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LwvXfW03tAo&feature=youtu.be)

We've been crashin the crappies and poundin some perch but yet to have an awesome yellow bite like in the past. I may try my old spot out from farmers. Somethin needs to give.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Jan 30, 2013, 09:16 PM
I have been focusing on the big lake.

Caught 105 (myself) in 2.5hours Sunday morning.

Its about half large yellows half mid-size.

Spots are a little different this year due to water levels.

Between son,brother and myself we have harvested 400 since Saturday.

Good luck
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: DAN03REV on Jan 30, 2013, 10:15 PM
the wife and i plan on making a trip over possibly this Saturday .. checking in on ice thickness on little lake .. drive on still safe i assume at McIntosh ?? .. will be pulling my camper/icehouse 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MidnightRambler on Jan 31, 2013, 07:20 AM
Another vehicle--this one a Jeep--went through the ice on Clear Lake yesterday afternoon.

KIMT did not say where on the lake it happened, just that the 1999 Cherokee went down in about ten feet of water when it hit an ice seam. The driver was not injured. http://www.kimt.com/content/localnews/story/Man-drives-vehicle-into-lake/A1ftn1KJVESbOk4rhKacJA.cspx
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: dcmod25 on Jan 31, 2013, 09:57 PM
i was over there on saturday afternoon and brought home 45 yellows outa the big lake, went back sunday morning and didny get on em as well. fished both big and little lake. ice was still good sunday afternoon on the little to drive out on. it was tough getting back of tho with the ice on the ramp from the rain!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Feb 01, 2013, 09:32 AM
i was over there on saturday afternoon and brought home 45 yellows outa the big lake, went back sunday morning and didny get on em as well. fished both big and little lake. ice was still good sunday afternoon on the little to drive out on. it was tough getting back of tho with the ice on the ramp from the rain!!

I did the exact same thing. Sat was good & Sunday morning was not.  But Sun. morning, my buddy & I set up by 3 permies thinking we were in good water & was too lazy to check the depth because we thought we were good only to find we were on 8' of water on the only hump in the Little Lake. If was far off from the 20' we wanted. It sucked & the rain started so we just sat for two hrs prior to getting off the lake. We started to hear tires spinning trying to get up the ramp & thought we better motate off.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Feb 01, 2013, 04:12 PM
Yellow bass bonanza..

one week to go before late fee Feb 9th.

No lose deal you go get a cabelas tackle bag (24.99value) just for signing up.

Caught a few today but very tough.

Thanks
Chris
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: DAN03REV on Feb 01, 2013, 04:53 PM
called the fishery and got some gps info for a rock reef on the north off high bank .. any other structure in there that somebody has gps for ?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Feb 01, 2013, 07:11 PM
called the fishery and got some gps info for a rock reef on the north off high bank .. any other structure in there that somebody has gps for ?

Oh, that's where all the cars have been going thru!!    ;)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Feb 02, 2013, 06:33 PM
Anybody been catching northern?  Trying to find some. And or walleye...need a few tips on them.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 641cfrank on Feb 02, 2013, 09:09 PM
Caught this fat girl today... it was a fun fight on 2# line.

(http://i1110.photobucket.com/albums/h459/641cfrank/IMAG06502.jpg)

(http://i1110.photobucket.com/albums/h459/641cfrank/IMAG06492.jpg)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coldfisherman on Feb 02, 2013, 10:26 PM
Nice fish! 5 more and ya got dinner for the family!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Feb 04, 2013, 01:18 PM
Im shocked another vehicle (ATV) went through Clear Lake. Dont be stupid people. travel safely,  dont always take the shorter route and travel where you know its safe. keep in mind where the aerators are. stick to the high traffic areas and dont travel out by yourself, always good to have a friend with. its beginning to look like this year the DNR wont push back the permy date. Feb. 20th. this week supposed to be around the 30's but gets down in the teens at night.
 stay safe out there and good luck! TIGHT LINES
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 04, 2013, 06:49 PM
The slabbies are in there.  Got several that size this winter and some pretty gynormous perch too.  Should be good fishing this spring for them If theres any left?

Where did that ATV go in at?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Feb 04, 2013, 06:52 PM
Haven't heard anything. Figured the news would wanna tell us so we know.  But that's Kimt for ya
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Feb 04, 2013, 07:22 PM
The slabbies are in there.  Got several that size this winter and some pretty gynormous perch too.  Should be good fishing this spring for them If theres any left?

Where did that ATV go in at?

I think the ATV went in just to the east of the State Dock. There has been a pressure ridge keeping the water open for most of the winter in that spot. With the cold temps it finally froze over. It was pretty obvious this was new ice, he should have known better.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Feb 04, 2013, 08:48 PM
All this is happening on the BIG lake, correct?  I presume the little lake is fine to traverse & yank yellows, right?    Thanks.

Be safe people.  Not a year to challenge the aerators!   ???


Found this.

http://www.kimt.com/content/localnews/story/ATV-Falls-Through-Ice-on-Clear-Lake/ExOTjU_9MkKLuaEwyzHttA.cspx?rss=1689
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Feb 04, 2013, 10:27 PM
Im shocked another vehicle (ATV) went through Clear Lake. Dont be stupid people. travel safely,  dont always take the shorter route and travel where you know its safe. keep in mind where the aerators are. stick to the high traffic areas and dont travel out by yourself, always good to have a friend with. its beginning to look like this year the DNR wont push back the permy date. Feb. 20th. this week supposed to be around the 30's but gets down in the teens at night.
 stay safe out there and good luck! TIGHT LINES


That ATV went in right out from where we were putting rocks along the north shore line.  Not a very smart person as the ice had heaved out there and there had been open water there the whole time we were putting in rocks.  Some people just lack some serious common sense!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Feb 05, 2013, 07:56 PM
Yellow Bass Tournament is moving forward.  We have thousands of dollars of prizes and only 50 entries. People are signing up everyday and we hope to get to 75 plus.  The funny thing is that we don't have many locals signed up 3/4's of the people are from 70 plus miles away.  So sign up and have fun and come and join the Tournament!!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: blufloyd on Feb 05, 2013, 09:34 PM
If today goes smooth might be over... Saturday or Sunday?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 06, 2013, 12:19 PM
Theres a pretty substantial pressure ridge off of the marsh ramp on SE side of the lake.  Thought it was a big drift and gave it a lil gas in the truck.  Got about 3 feet in the air.  Be safe boys..
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Feb 06, 2013, 12:56 PM
Theres a pretty substantial pressure ridge off of the marsh ramp on SE side of the lake.  Thought it was a big drift and gave it a lil gas in the truck.  Got about 3 feet in the air.  Be safe boys..

At least you got air and not a truck full of water!    ;)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Feb 06, 2013, 07:55 PM
Any new reports.  Been thinking about heading up there on Saturday.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Feb 07, 2013, 12:49 AM
Is the little lake still good for traveling & is the McIntosh ramp still good to get on? Thanks.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Feb 07, 2013, 05:18 AM
Is the little lake still good for traveling & is the McIntosh ramp still good to get on? Thanks.


Yes drove on yesterday and it's looking good. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Feb 07, 2013, 06:37 AM

Yes drove on yesterday and it's looking good.


How was the fishing?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tyke on Feb 07, 2013, 01:45 PM
Sorry for asking but could someone post the link for entry form for the yellow bass bonanza on the 16th.  I've looked about every place I know to find it and can't ( I don't know crap about computers). I'm going to try and make it there if I can. Sounds like alot of fun. Thank
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: mjmeyer on Feb 07, 2013, 02:22 PM
http://www.paulsfishingguide.com/tournament/ClearLakeYellowBassBonanzaApplicationFormpdf.pdf (http://www.paulsfishingguide.com/tournament/ClearLakeYellowBassBonanzaApplicationFormpdf.pdf)
http://www.paulsfishingguide.com/tournament/2013BonanzaRules.pdf (http://www.paulsfishingguide.com/tournament/2013BonanzaRules.pdf)

Form and Rules.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: squ1rr31_ on Feb 07, 2013, 03:28 PM
I really wish I could go to this, unfortunately I'll be on Leech Lake on my annual trip for the Eelpout Festival from the 9th to the 17th. Hoping for solid weather!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tyke on Feb 07, 2013, 03:43 PM
Thanks mj. Got the check made out and ready to mail. Thank again
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Feb 07, 2013, 05:09 PM
Curious to why trucks can't be driven out on the lake if your a contestant?  And why can we only fish from either portable or nothing?  Its not going to matter having permie or not. Confused. ..
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: blufloyd on Feb 07, 2013, 08:19 PM
Liability shouldn't be that tough to figure.  And perms have had weeks to set up on hot spot.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Feb 07, 2013, 08:38 PM
Guys can always move there permie few feet over and sit?  I don't see the big deal. ATV'S can break through too. I will be one of yhe many that will not be taking part in this event and will happily be fishing out of my permie with my truck sitting right outside
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Feb 07, 2013, 09:34 PM
Seeking Buster advice, again!

I appreciate you keeping us posted. I'm from the Iowa City area & pondering coming up this weekend with my buddy. We were up 2 wks ago in the ice storm. I've scouted MacBride down here this week & the ice looks like total crap with open areas so makes me apprehensive. My bud lives in Nashua & said it is raining up there as well. If we come up this weekend, will we still be able to get on & navigate the Little Lake? Could the ice be turning to crap? I don't want to make the trip up if it's going to be sketchy. Also, do you anticipate there being a lot of inches of water on top of the ice on Saturday? I could bring up my ATV if I have to. Thanks for any info. 

I pretty much want to know if you guys think it will still be good this weekend & safe. Thanks.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: nitro1 on Feb 07, 2013, 10:30 PM
Ice itself is good.  Was out there yesterday in the rain, stayed a little too late.  Was very nervous looking out from portable and seeing standing water and having to depend on gps to make it back to shore(no tracks to follow) i didn't want to leave as I had caught my first keeper eye and lost an even bigger one at he hole( 17" plus)at dusk.  Makes one nervous when a couple of vehicles have gone thru in the past couple of weeks!  Good common sense never hurts. Stay away from the heaves. Been on the lake at least 20 times this winter and have yet to be skunked. Wish I didn't have to work for the yellow bass bonanza!  Should be a real good time as long as weather holds out.  Tight lines :)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Feb 07, 2013, 10:49 PM
Thanks for all the interest in the bonanza.

We are at 60 contestants and growing fast.

Ice conditions with in the tournament boundaries are excellent.

Might hit a 100 yet......that's up to you.

thanks
Chris
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 08, 2013, 11:35 AM
Ice is in good shape yet.  Saturday it may get intresting 40 degrees rain and 30mph winds.  Fishing is still good in the little lake.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Feb 08, 2013, 12:06 PM
Ice is in good shape yet.  Saturday it may get intresting 40 degrees rain and 30mph winds.  Fishing is still good in the little lake.

Thanks all. Sounds like we could maybe bring a small boat to sit in to fish!   ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Feb 08, 2013, 06:37 PM
Well, now it sounds like Saturday might be manageable, maybe with a little sleet later. But, Sunday sounds like rain & maybe thundershowers. All this starting after midnight it sounds.

I & a buddy be coming up to put a hurt on the yellows Saturday! I'm assuming try to find the deepest depth like 22 ft or more. Prob anything over 20'.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Feb 08, 2013, 10:56 PM
If i was going to put the hurt on yellows won't necessarily go for deep water.

Just finished opening mail. 76 entries!!!

We are going to blow past a 100 by Monday.

Thanks for helping support the bonanza.

Local boys and girls where are your entries?
Thanks
Chris

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Feb 09, 2013, 04:09 AM
A thought for me as to why you have so many from far away is it's like a vacation for us to go up there.  Some buddies and I got a couple of hotel rooms.  The fishing near Cedar Falls has been horrible (you can catch a ton of fish, but very few worth keeping), and our ice here only looks so good right now.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bullhead King on Feb 09, 2013, 08:01 AM
I am still 50/50 on if I can attend as my cousin just got home from Afghanistan and might be back from Washington next weekend for a big party for him.  I am trying to get a group of my buddies together and will register the day of the event if you can do so.

A question one of them asked was, "What does all the money from the registrations go towards?  The final payout for places or there is an organization going to benefit from the contest?"  Like the Somerset, Wisconsin contest goes towards their Somerset Youth Athletic Association, and the big Brainard contest goes to a camp for kids.

Thanks hope I can make it!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Feb 09, 2013, 12:51 PM
We are looking at donating money to different organizations That are fishing related.
 Recycled fish is 1 of the Group that will be receiving some money.

 I was out with 4 guys today. in the little lake in just over 2 hours we put 240 yellows in the bucket.

 If they are biting like that everybody should have fish.

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bullhead King on Feb 09, 2013, 05:30 PM
luckydog thanks for the reply.

If the weather more like roads aren't too bad I might go over and check it out.  In the little lake what depth of water was you in?  Was you using cutbait or minnows? And finally what color and type of jig were you using?  I know you need to hole hop is key, but whenever I go to fish the lake in either hard water of soft water I have no luck and might get a few yellow bass when everybody else says they are on fire.  If you want you can PM me more specifics if you don't want to share on here.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Feb 09, 2013, 06:53 PM
luckydog thanks for the reply.

If the weather more like roads aren't too bad I might go over and check it out.  In the little lake what depth of water was you in?  Was you using cutbait or minnows? And finally what color and type of jig were you using?  I know you need to hole hop is key, but whenever I go to fish the lake in either hard water of soft water I have no luck and might get a few yellow bass when everybody else says they are on fire.  If you want you can PM me more specifics if you don't want to share on here.


I was using small spoons with spikes today. hole hopping was not a requirement today.
Focus was on a 20 hole set in 8 fow.

We hit 103 contestants today....with several more on the way..

Thanks
Chris

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Iowan on Feb 09, 2013, 07:13 PM
Planning on coming up but won't know until Friday afternoon because of work.  Got a few other guys that are planning on coming up with that have also not preregistered.  Sounds like there will be a good turn out and sure it will be a great time!! 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: DougU on Feb 09, 2013, 07:46 PM
Must have been a different Clear Lake than the one that I and my buddies hit today fighting 30mph winds and watching guys pulling their permies off.....several locals said its a very time sensitive bite, miss the time, miss the fish.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crappyfishrman on Feb 10, 2013, 09:48 AM
Im not gonna be able to cime up friday, but me and a buddy will hopefully make it. What kind of bait and tackle should I bring?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Feb 10, 2013, 07:05 PM
75th place will be sponsored by steggall farms.

Clam pro tc shelter

steggall farms will also be sponsoring the vexilar fl-12

place will be decided based on number of entries.

Thanks
Chris
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: okie22 on Feb 10, 2013, 10:46 PM
You can add three more.  Just a little late mailing the registration.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 11, 2013, 12:05 PM
How is the ice after the rain and wind?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bassfishineric12 on Feb 11, 2013, 12:17 PM
I drove out yesterday around noon on the little lake and drove off around 7 it was pretty slushy but thrre was still plenty of ice. Id go off at McIntosh tho, there was a massive pond in front of lerenzos
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: toofuss on Feb 13, 2013, 12:43 PM
Was on the little lake yesterday ice was still 16 to 18 inches everywhere we checked. We got out about 7:30 or 8 and the bite was really slow or we weren't on them. Hooked up with a couple local guys and brought home 126 yellows and 4 real nice crappies. Also caught a couple dink perch but they went back down the hole. All were pulled from 18-19 feet and they were really hugging bottom.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crappyfishrman on Feb 13, 2013, 04:35 PM
For the Ice Fishing Bonanza, is it going to be free for all on the lake, or stay within some boundaries? Trying to decide if its worth bringing my 2 man flip over, or just a bucket to sit on. Thanks guys
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jumbo chaser on Feb 13, 2013, 05:26 PM
Is ice still good ? Did you get much rain?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Feb 13, 2013, 09:04 PM
For the Ice Fishing Bonanza, is it going to be free for all on the lake, or stay within some boundaries? Trying to decide if its worth bringing my 2 man flip over, or just a bucket to sit on. Thanks guys


all contestants will start at Macintosh boat ramp.
Boundaries are the thin ice markers extending from the pump house to dodges point.
Maps will be provided in your tournament pouch.

We are at 128 entries.

Thanks
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Feb 15, 2013, 05:56 AM
Tonight is the big night! Yellow Bass Ice Bash 5-8 at the Ventura Community Center.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: toofuss on Feb 15, 2013, 03:58 PM
Go get em boys.. if two dummys who have never fished clear before can bring home 120 in about 2 hours you guys should have no problem.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: notime on Feb 17, 2013, 10:56 AM
How did the tournament go
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Feb 17, 2013, 12:47 PM
Excellent!
195 contestants. They caught 4545 fish that weighed over 1000 lbs. Caught should be replaced with weighed.  I think my buddy and I probably ended the day catching 300-350 fish between us (at least 150 each).  Not bad for 8 to 12:45.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Feb 17, 2013, 04:37 PM
Here's the newspaper article about the yellow bass bonanza.

http://globegazette.com/news/local/great-fishing-for-yellow-bass-bonanza-on-clear-lake-saturday/article_89bfe2c6-789c-11e2-b03d-0019bb2963f4.html
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Feb 17, 2013, 04:42 PM

I forgot the newspaper might not let you in without a subscription so here is the article.

CLEAR LAKE — One hundred ninety-five anglers from six states took to the ice on the west end of Clear Lake Saturday for the inaugural Yellow Bass Bonanza hosted by Chris Scholl and Kevan Paul of Paul’s Fishing Guide.

Participants enjoyed almost ideal ice-fishing weather and a strong bite as they competed for thousands of dollars in cash and prizes.

“This has got to be 100 times better than I dreamed of,” Paul said.

The anglers took off from McIntosh Woods State Park in Ventura just before 8 a.m. Many found fish almost immediately.

Justin Humpal of Monroe claimed $50 by being the first contestant to weigh in his tournament limit of 50 yellows at 9:19. His basket weighed 10.37 lbs.

Humpal fished just west of the channel in about 5 feet of water using a green Mudbug.

“They were just one after another,” said Humpel, who fished Clear Lake for the first time earlier in the week.

Other anglers chose to stay on the ice until the 1 p.m. deadline in hopes of finding more quality fish.

The most successful was Jim Oberfoell of Osage, whose 50-fish basket weighed 13.59 pounds and earned him $600.

Fishing just west of the aerator hole near the north shore pumping station, Oberfoell reeled in 76 fish by 10 a.m. He used an orange Mudbug baited with wigglers and fished at a depth of 7 feet.

Oberfoell said he tried eight to nine holes before he found a concentration of fish. “You’ve got to move,” he noted.

Second place and $400 went to Kevin Wiemers of Burt with 12.76 lbs. He also collected $415 plus $150 in prizes from Berkley for catching the largest white bass at 2.43 lbs.

Just behind in third was Matt Hull of Alta who took $300 with 12.75 lbs.

Both Wiemers and Hull fished in the little lake using jigging spoons and wigglers. Orange was a hot color for them as well.

Participants turned in a total of 4,545 yellow bass weighing 1,050 lbs.





Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: blufloyd on Feb 17, 2013, 06:38 PM
That seems like fun.  Will they be biting till iceout?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Feb 18, 2013, 01:55 PM
you can expect another article in the paper next weekend and Yes they will continue to bite til ice out.  Today chris and two buddys caught over 150 in just a few hours. I hope this snow doesn't stick. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IOWAICE21 on Feb 20, 2013, 09:56 PM
Hows the ice lookin? Planning on makin a trip up with a pickup and crank down. Never fished CL looking to hopefully get into a mess of yellows and a few eyes any suggestions on where to start?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Feb 21, 2013, 06:47 AM
drove on little lake yesterday  38 yellows,4 perch 1 crappie  17 fow best bite 3-4 pm
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IOWAICE21 on Feb 21, 2013, 12:37 PM
Thanks for the info 26perch! What was the ice thickness?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Feb 21, 2013, 03:38 PM
15-18" of good ice on little lake stay away from channel between big & little lake
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: huntaholic on Feb 21, 2013, 08:28 PM
That seems like fun.  Will they be biting till iceout?
Its only going to get better from here on
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IOWAICE21 on Feb 21, 2013, 08:57 PM
Thanks again 26perch!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: toofuss on Feb 22, 2013, 08:42 AM
Important.definitely going to have to come that way again. man them yellow are a blast.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: russjess on Feb 22, 2013, 09:23 AM
Thinking bout heading up Tom would like some information on where to go and time I'm thinking the little lake and I'm not asking for your hot spot just like fow they are biting best and if its better with minnows or wax worms got a buddy coming down from Minnesota and wanna get on some fish any help would be appreciated wished.I could of came last weekend got the yellow bass tournament but had to work thanks in advance on any information and ill let u know how we did
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: russjess on Feb 22, 2013, 09:25 AM
U can also pm me if u don't want everyone to know
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Feb 22, 2013, 01:14 PM
Every time I have gone this year I have pounded them.  I have been using a buckshot spoon with a dropper chain and spikes.  The day of the tournament they were biting so well I had to switch to gulp alive waxies so I wasn't re-baiting every 45 seconds.  I would guess it was 175 fish in 4.5 hours, and I made the mistake of moving to find bigger fish during that time (didn't work).  Assuming you're using a flasher, I would not not drop my line down until you find fish (it is not worth your time). 10 feet can be the difference between nothing, a couple, and sitting on fish (you're bottom zoom can be worthless with how many fish there are).  Want to make them mad?  smack the bottom with your lure and lift it up (some times the fish will already be on).  other buddies caught them on; gem-n-eyes, pilkies, tear drops, tungsten jigs, hook and minnow under bobber, the tournament was won by a guy fishing a northland mud bug supposedly.  I've been fishing little lake.  I go out a ways off the boat ramp and head slightly to the left.  hope that helps
   
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Feb 23, 2013, 09:05 AM
U can also pm me if u don't want everyone to know


no need to pm.

Focus on little lake 7 fow. green mudbugs 4-5 spikes.

Good luck
Chris
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Feb 23, 2013, 11:28 AM
Thursday we did well in 9-10 fow also green mudbugs
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: qciceman on Feb 23, 2013, 10:17 PM
I'm planning on taking my first trip to Clear Lake next weekend. Regarding the yellow bass, I understand that they're an invasive species. I enjoy a little fish, and will probably keep enough for a meal or two. However, I have no desire to take home dozens upon dozens of yellow bass.

Should yellows that I don't take home be put back into the water? I don't want to release a fish that will damage the fishery, but aren't comfortable with leaving them on the ice either. What is the best thing to do with yellow bass that I don't plan on eating?

Thoughts?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Feb 24, 2013, 07:33 AM
I'm planning on taking my first trip to Clear Lake next weekend. Regarding the yellow bass, I understand that they're an invasive species. I enjoy a little fish, and will probably keep enough for a meal or two. However, I have no desire to take home dozens upon dozens of yellow bass.

Should yellows that I don't take home be put back into the water? I don't want to release a fish that will damage the fishery, but aren't comfortable with leaving them on the ice either. What is the best thing to do with yellow bass that I don't plan on eating?

Thoughts?
Ask the other fisherman if they want them. Usually somebody will take them.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Feb 24, 2013, 07:37 AM


Yellow Bass Bonanza exceeds expectations


“Luck is where the crossroads of opportunity and preparation meet.”

There probably weren’t many fishing tournaments in the first century, when Roman philosopher Seneca allegedly coined this oft-quoted adage. Yet some 2,000 years later, his words rang true on the west end of Clear Lake a week ago Saturday.

A total of 195 anglers from six states took part in the inaugural Yellow Bass Bonanza held at McIntosh Woods State Park. Opportunity and preparation met to make the event bigger and better than imagined.

“I just think it was really successful for our first year and not knowing what to expect,” said Chris Scholl, who organized the tournament along with fellow fishing guide Kevan Paul.

“This has got to be 100 times better than I dreamed of,” Paul agreed.

Ice fishing is often a hit-or-miss proposition. High winds with bitter cold can make it a challenging and painful exercise, while unseasonable warmth can make the ice sloppy at best and unsafe at worst.

Regardless of conditions, fish may choose not to bite for reasons fully understood only by the fish.

Everything fell into place for the bonanza. Just-right weather and a strong yellow bass bite came together to provide anglers with the perfect opportunity.

“I’m just happy to be out catching fish,” said Nick Meyer of Milford. “I’ve fished in tournaments where I haven’t caught a thing.”

Fishing at Clear Lake for the first time, Meyer found a concentration of yellow bass almost immediately after the 8 a.m. start. He had his tournament limit of 50 yellows within an hour, although he chose to forego the $50 prize for the first limit weighed while shooting for a heavier basket.

“I got up at 3 a.m.,” Meyer noted. “It was worth it.”

Six-year-old Adan Jorgensen of Dexter and his father, Derek, traveled from Dexter for the event.

“We had to drive all the way,” Adan noted.

Although they weren’t nearly as successful as Meyer (Adan weighed in four yellows weighing 1.01 pounds) both had a good time.

“I think we’ll be back next year, won’t we buddy?” Derek asked.

Adan nodded in agreement before hurrying off to claim a cup of hot chocolate and a cookie offered by Farm and City Insurance Services.

Providing refreshments for cold, tired anglers was just one example of the preparation made by Paul and Scholl.

The duo arranged a meal and a yellow bass fishing seminar the night before, offering anglers new to Clear Lake an opportunity to learn about their quarry.

DNR Fisheries Biologist Scott Grummer discussed yellow bass biology. He noted yellows are a desirable gamefish as well as a key forage species for larger predators in Clear Lake.

Grummer said yellow bass do well here because Clear Lake is a large natural lake with an incredibly dense population of bloodworms, a key food source for the voracious fish.

Yellows can quickly overpopulate in smaller and less-fertile lakes, displacing other desirable species while failing to reach angler-acceptable size.

“These are not a fish we want anglers moving around,” Grummer noted.

Des Moines fishing guide Rod Woten spoke on behalf of Recycled Fish, a non-profit organization dedicated to responsible outdoor recreation and good environmental stewardship.

In addition to encouraging catch-and-release fishing where it’s beneficial, Recycled Fish places a special emphasis on improving and maintaining water quality.

“Our lifestyle runs downstream,” Woten noted.

Paul and Scholl discussed rules for the tournament and also offered angling tips.

“We want to help everyone learn about yellow bass and hopefully catch fish for the tournament,” Paul said.

Anglers did just that, bringing 4,545 yellow bass weighing 1,050 pounds to the scale.

The weigh-in proceeded smoothly despite the unexpected turnout and impressive haul, another testament to the preparation by Paul and Scholl.

Both gave credit to the many volunteers who made that possible as well as several sponsors who provided cash, prizes and other assistance.

Paul said participants expressed appreciation for the tournament and enthusiasm to attend next year.

“Everyone wants to see it grow,” Paul said. “Next year we’re shooting for 300 (participants).”

Next year’s Yellow Bass Bonanza has been tentatively scheduled for Feb. 8. For more information go to www.paulsfishingguide. com or call 641-529-2359.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fisherman58 on Feb 24, 2013, 07:47 AM
whats a yellow bas look like
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Feb 24, 2013, 07:53 AM

No strain on yellow bass population

“Luck is where the crossroads of opportunity and preparation meet.”

Participants in the Yellow Bass Bonanza were limited to fishing in the little lake and the west end of the main basin of Clear Lake.

Anglers found fish throughout the permitted zone in depths from 5 to 18 feet. Most used small jigging spoons tipped with spikes, waxworms or cutbait.

Greater concentrations of yellows were noted in the little lake, although anglers fishing near the aerator hole on North Shore found some larger fish. There have also been reports of non-tournament anglers catching yellow and a few legal walleyes near the island.

There is no limit on yellow bass, meaning some anglers harvested considerably more than the 50 they weighed in. While this might be concerning (and illegal) for most species on most bodies of water, the DNR’s Scott Grummer said it is not an issue with Clear Lake yellow bass.

“I really don’t see any problem with the numbers as long as they’re being utilized,” Grummer said. “We still have plenty of yellow bass out there. This didn’t hurt the population at all.”

Grummer said the lake has at least three strong year-classes of yellows, two of which are now reaching angler-acceptable size. With favorable weather, last year’s estimated open-water harvest of 173,000 could easily be met or exceeded.

Hard-water fishing should remain excellent until ice out, particularly on warm days. Grummer cautions anglers to use appropriate safety gear and monitor ice conditions carefully.

Late-season ice can deteriorate quickly, Grummer said.

“Yesterday’s (safe) ice isn’t always fine today,” he said.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IGLfisherman on Feb 24, 2013, 09:07 AM
so is it against the law to release a rough fish like the yellows?? just asking..
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Feb 24, 2013, 10:21 AM
so is it against the law to release a rough fish like the yellows?? just asking..

if you are not going to utilize the fish you harvest. then be selective take only what you will eat.
Release the rest.
Some will say take them all..... it is foolish to think that throwing a few hundred yellows on the ice or in a ditch is going to influence the population.

Leave the biology to the experts....same as the transport and stocking DON'T DO IT.

Enjoy the resource.. you have a species that tastes great, easy to catch and you can't over harvest. so have a large fish fry or give some to your neighbors.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: qciceman on Feb 24, 2013, 07:11 PM
Is there a fishable population of Northern in Clear Lake? Is it worth setting out a tip up while fishing for yellows?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Feb 24, 2013, 08:10 PM
Is there a fishable population of Northern in Clear Lake? Is it worth setting out a tip up while fishing for yellows?

northern no. walleye yes..

Put out a 4-5" sucker and you can be surprised by some big old marble eyes.

Friend and i managed 131 yellows in couple hours this afternoon.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IOWAICE21 on Feb 24, 2013, 09:33 PM
Went off little lake yesterday and did great on the yellows. Also caught around 30 perch, 6 walleye and a few crappies. Kept only yellows and relesed the rest. Ended up with 117 yellows in a few hours. Minnow heads on small tungsten jigs
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bassfishnhunt on Feb 25, 2013, 08:54 AM
My buddies and I are headed to Clear Lake this weekend, are people driving out or should I bring the 4 wheeler? Are most of the guys catching the yellows going off of McIntosh?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: cyclones30 on Feb 25, 2013, 09:14 AM
I think we're heading to Clear as well this weekend for the first time this year. Just looking for the most action to so probably heading towards the little lake it sounds. Thanks for the tips!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Feb 26, 2013, 06:41 AM
we had group of 3 out yesterday 376 yellows in 5 hours.

started fishing in 7-8' ended in 15'. mudbugs w/ cutbait.

one of the guys got a master angler 10.25" yellow.
congrats jerry!

good luck all
Chris
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: notime on Mar 03, 2013, 09:50 AM
did everyone quit fishing clear lake. last post was the 26th
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: russjess on Mar 03, 2013, 09:59 AM
Was there yesterday got 37 yellows in 7 hours don't know what we did wrong there was 3 of us moved everywhere
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Mar 03, 2013, 10:22 AM
Went yesterday as well with similar luck.  Only talked to one guy who pounded them, and only watched one other group have about a half an hour of success (they probably got 45 in that 30 min between 3 of them).  The fish were there just not biting.  I threw the book at them too for lures.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Mar 03, 2013, 05:30 PM
fished thurs aft.1-6  35 +1 11" perch out of big lake  marked fish but few takers
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Mar 03, 2013, 05:55 PM
5 of us fished for 5 hours today....let me just say a lot of happy senior citizens will be receiving fish!

final tally 721 yellows. we fished 3 different spots in the little lake we focused on 10 fow.

also we released 25+ crappie. thanks to the guys fishing with me for following my personal release rules.
we don't keep crappie or perch when harvesting yellows


good luck
Chris
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Ice Psycho on Mar 03, 2013, 10:23 PM
I
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Ice Psycho on Mar 03, 2013, 10:28 PM
Oops,  I think people finally got word of the gills on Crystal Lake.  Just hammered the gills two days in a row.  Easily limiting out. Fishing in 15 fow.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tyke on Mar 06, 2013, 03:27 PM
Has anyone fished for yellows on Clear Lake lately? Thinking about heading that way maybe this weekend.Thanks in advance.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Mar 06, 2013, 07:02 PM
everything is still good.  Little lake has 4" of snow and 13-15" of ice.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: huntaholic on Mar 06, 2013, 10:42 PM
Had my worst day of the year on clear lake today. Drilled and drilled and drilled and couldn't get away from 3" yellows. Did well on crappies sunday but that spot was a bust today.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Iowan on Mar 07, 2013, 04:54 PM
Home the rain stays away as we are planning on heading that way this weekend. :-\
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Mar 07, 2013, 05:06 PM
Thinking about heading up saturday morning to catch a pale full of 3 to 10 inch yellows and keep them all.  Some for food some for eagle food!!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Mar 07, 2013, 05:44 PM
Thinking about heading up saturday morning to catch a pale full of 3 to 10 inch yellows and keep them all.  Some for food some for eagle food!!!
Not trying to keep you from fishing but
Saturday Showers and possibly a thunderstorm. Patchy fog before 9am. High near 37. Breezy, with a south southeast wind 15 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Mar 07, 2013, 06:51 PM
we get that rain It's going to be a sloppy mess !!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Mar 07, 2013, 10:21 PM
Not trying to keep you from fishing but
Saturday Showers and possibly a thunderstorm. Patchy fog before 9am. High near 37. Breezy, with a south southeast wind 15 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

Ya I saw that.  Might play it by ear. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ranger185 on Mar 08, 2013, 08:40 PM
Fished 6 hours on Clear today. Ventura Bay. 100 holes drilled in every depth, minnows, spikes, waxies, plastics. One 6" crappie to show for it. No other fish caught and very few seen on the Vex. I know I stink at this but didn't think I stunk that bad. Looking around you could tell others were struggling as well with alot of guys standing around and alot of drilling going on.
In a couple previous trips to Clear several 8" crappies were iced and released. One has to wonder if the reports of people catching limits day after day were these type of fish. I know there are bigger ones in there but...just sayin. Is that what is considered a "keeper" now that ice fishing has exploded? If you keep an 8" crappie you have got to be kidding me.
Reports of 500 plus yellows in a day by the guides and their clients. Thousands and thousands caught during the Yellow Bonanza Derby. Someone mentioned going to the lake and catching little Yellows and feeding them to the eagles? Maybe my grandson wants to catch them when they get to 7" or bigger. Yellows are an "invasive species" trash fish while year after year they provide fun to my children and grandchildren to catch them off the dock? You need to get a clue as to what Clear and Yellows are about.
I sense a change in ice fishing in Iowa. Been ice fishing for several years. Was early on the electronics and gear revolution. Now it is normal to see hundreds of people on Brushy, Clear, 12 mile, et. al. any given weekend. The fish are getting pounded..badly. Very badly.
At least the limits were changed (due to ice fishing primarily I think) to 20 panfish per day. That doesn't seem to stop guys from going 5 days a week to get their 20 limit of 8" crappies out of Clear or Brushy. Will we see future limits 5 per day? A slot limit of for crappies? Something needs to change.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: codewordcs1 on Mar 08, 2013, 08:53 PM
Jigging cadence. Some have it and others don't so when the fish arent hungry and eating anything they come across it comes down to this imo. Crappie limit is 25 a day and I usually stick with the 10 or better rule unless they're 9" and an 1 1/2" thick like they come on the flowages in Wisconsin but normally 10" or better and bigger than 13" go back. But in reality if a person wants to keep 25 7" or 8" crappies its legal. Personally I'd like to see the limit go to 10-15 a day and put a possession limit in place.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: anderson_dc on Mar 08, 2013, 09:06 PM
The 1000 plus yellow bass caught during the bonanza are a drop in the bucket compared to how many are in the lake.

Daily limit for gills and crappie is 25 fish each.  I'd rather see guys keep the 8-9" crappie and let the 12" plus fish go.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: huntaholic on Mar 09, 2013, 01:40 AM
Call me on the day yellows get fished out of clear and I will give you a million dollars ::)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Mar 09, 2013, 06:42 AM
you having a bad day of fishing is unfortunate....but don't be so quick to blame The guides and bonanza. we care deeply about this fishery!!!!!
for instance we promote the release of all crappie,perch and walleye when targeting yellows. last Sunday we caught and released 25+ crappie and some were over 12". it's possible to go out and not hammer on the yellows from time to time.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Mar 09, 2013, 09:41 AM
The yellow bass are still plentiful.  While dad and I haven't gotten on a good bite together yet we are still marking hundreds + while fishing.  They are in HUGE areas, 40'x40' plus area blocks, stacked up to 3 feet thick.  We can find a couple areas like that in very little time on just a small portion of little lake. The day they decide to bite for me again it'll be over 100+ fish a piece with no problem.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Ice Psycho on Mar 09, 2013, 10:35 AM
Ranger---You are seriously crying about not catching any fish ????  You don't even know the limits,,,that doesn't speak well for your fishing knowledge or skills!  Just because you couldn't find the fish doesn't mean the largest natural lake in Iowa is being over fished!!  If its not fun for you anymore maybe you should hang it up. ???
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ramdriver on Mar 09, 2013, 06:29 PM
What is all this rain doing to the ice. Will it last another week? Would like to make one more trip.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Iowan on Mar 09, 2013, 06:35 PM
What is all this rain doing to the ice. Will it last another week? Would like to make one more trip.

X2
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Mar 09, 2013, 06:47 PM
Drove trucks out today but now 4" of snow on the way.  Its not going to be good. We will have 5" of water on top plus high winds.  Next week will be the last if it don't get cold again. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ratherBfishN on Mar 11, 2013, 03:41 PM
Reports of 500 plus yellows in a day by the guides and their clients. Thousands and thousands caught during the Yellow Bonanza Derby. Someone mentioned going to the lake and catching little Yellows and feeding them to the eagles? Maybe my grandson wants to catch them when they get to 7" or bigger. Yellows are an "invasive species" trash fish while year after year they provide fun to my children and grandchildren to catch them off the dock? You need to get a clue as to what Clear and Yellows are about.
I sense a change in ice fishing in Iowa. Been ice fishing for several years. Was early on the electronics and gear revolution. Now it is normal to see hundreds of people on Brushy, Clear, 12 mile, et. al. any given weekend. The fish are getting pounded..badly. Very badly.
At least the limits were changed (due to ice fishing primarily I think) to 20 panfish per day. That doesn't seem to stop guys from going 5 days a week to get their 20 limit of 8" crappies out of Clear or Brushy. Will we see future limits 5 per day? A slot limit of for crappies? Something needs to change.

While I realize you are completely entitled to your opinion and it is respected as such, I am not sure one isolated fishing experience at Clear Lake can be used to substantiate your assumptions of the lake or the yellow bass/crappie population and its subsequent future.  The "guides" on here are some of the biggest proponents and advocates for good and ethical stewardship of that lake.  Obviously, it is first and foremost, their "own backyard".  Why would they do anything that would be detrimental to the fishing?  As guides, it's also their livelihood or one would assume.  As most on here will agree, the lake seems to be thriving and healthy as the increased weed growth and fish poplulation/size are proof of that fact.  It is an undeniable fact the yellow bass are indeed an invasive species and most likely will never have its population threatened by over harvesting.  Your children and grandchildren's experience at the lake should remain unaffected.  I couldn't agree more with your desire to keep the yellow bass around for their pleasure.  Nothing better than having kids experience the fast action that few fish can offer like the yellows.   I can't speak to the growth rates of the crappie but it's my understanding the yellows have a rapid growth rate during the warm season...up to an inch a month.  So a fast growth rate and prolific population pretty much guarantees successful future fishing experiences for you and your grandkids for years to come. 

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ASATMillerbluegill on Mar 11, 2013, 03:46 PM
While I realize you are completely entitled to your opinion and it is respected as such, I am not sure one isolated fishing experience at Clear Lake can be used to substantiate your assumptions of the lake or the yellow bass/crappie population and its subsequent future.  The "guides" on here are some of the biggest proponents and advocates for good and ethical stewardship of that lake.  Obviously, it is first and foremost, their "own backyard".  Why would they do anything that would be detrimental to the fishing?  As guides, it's also their livelihood or one would assume.  As most on here will agree, the lake seems to be thriving and healthy as the increased weed growth and fish poplulation/size are proof of that fact.  It is an undeniable fact the yellow bass are indeed an invasive species and most likely will never have its population threatened by over harvesting.  Your children and grandchildren's experience at the lake should remain unaffected.  I couldn't agree more with your desire to keep the yellow bass around for their pleasure.  Nothing better than having kids experience the fast action that few fish can offer like the yellows.   I can't speak to the growth rates of the crappie but it's my understanding the yellows have a rapid growth rate during the warm season...up to an inch a month.  So a fast growth rate and prolific population pretty much guarantees successful future fishing experiences for you and your grandkids for years to come.
Good post
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ASATMillerbluegill on Mar 11, 2013, 03:47 PM
How did Clear Lake hold up to the winds and rain?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Mar 11, 2013, 06:57 PM
not sure yet.... there was a lot of water standing on the lake Saturday.
water in front of linn Lorenzon access was over 2' deep. ice was honey combing some.

no more vehicles would be my opinion. be safe!!!!!

good luck
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: toothfish on Mar 12, 2013, 08:21 AM
With the reproduction rates and reputation of the yellow bass it would be hard for me to believe that they could be "over fished" in any lake.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Mar 12, 2013, 08:37 AM
With the reproduction rates and reputation of the yellow bass it would be hard for me to believe that they could be "over fished" in any lake.


I agree 100 percent!!!!!!!!!!!  The only real way to get rid of them is to drain a lake after they have infested it.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Mar 12, 2013, 12:21 PM
Drove on the lake yesterday and it was ugly.  Lots of slop on the lake.  Today I drove on Crystal and that was worse yet.  Travel by foot or sled would still be ok but use caution. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MidnightRambler on Mar 16, 2013, 06:59 AM
Check the forecast for the Clear Lake area.  ;D

I was going to put my gear away after a trip to southern Minnesota today, but looking at the forecast for the next week a day-trip to Clear Lake next weekend might be in order.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Oldbear on Mar 16, 2013, 07:20 AM
They say the little lake has plenty of ice yet but really sloppy slush on top.  Good luck.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Ice Psycho on Mar 18, 2013, 12:14 PM
The little lake still has a good 16" of ice. All the slush stuff it frozen now but still only seen
one truck on the ice. Fished on the west end and had decent luck with crappie and the yellows.
Still plenty off time to fish in northern Iowa  !!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jumbo chaser on Mar 18, 2013, 07:33 PM
That's good to hear and the forecast looking like at least one more weekend . I would like to come join you guys I might be able to get away from work one last time
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jagerdog on Mar 21, 2013, 01:59 PM
I fished Sunday on the little lake and caught just small perch and a couple small walleyes.  I fished 8-10 fow and had the screen full of fish, but it was tiny perch mostly.  On the upside, my new Marcum LX7 is nice.  Not sure how big of an improvement over my Vexilar, but after 15 years and several million fish, I decided to try a Marcum, just to see what the fuss is.  I figure what the heck, I'd spend it anyway, and wake up hung over and covered in baby oil and glitter.....
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ramdriver on Mar 21, 2013, 08:40 PM
Would like one more trip hows the ice????? Worth the two hour drive?????? 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Mar 21, 2013, 10:44 PM
walked out on little lake today plenty of good ice-14+   got 34 yellows- 2 large,5dinks, rest med-medsmall 2-16" whites &5 small perch  10 fow  5 vehicles on little lake???   3 east of island??????  imo they are looking for disaster.  should be good this wkend but be careful &wear ice cleats        good luck
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jumbo chaser on Mar 21, 2013, 11:14 PM
Ya I want one more trip hopefully I can get away from work one more time
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Mar 22, 2013, 04:15 PM
I fished Sunday on the little lake and caught just small perch and a couple small walleyes.  I fished 8-10 fow and had the screen full of fish, but it was tiny perch mostly.  On the upside, my new Marcum LX7 is nice.  Not sure how big of an improvement over my Vexilar, but after 15 years and several million fish, I decided to try a Marcum, just to see what the fuss is.  I figure what the heck, I'd spend it anyway, and wake up hung over and covered in baby oil and glitter.....


Clappy hands. I got a chuckle out of that one.  ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jagerdog on Mar 24, 2013, 07:52 PM
Fished the little lake tonight in 17 fow.  caught fish continuously, mostly yellows, with a few perch and dink walleyes mixed in.  caught some really nice yellows.  I used spikes, wax wor,s. minnows and gulp.  spikes was by far the best bait.  I got a lot more on verticle jigs versus horizontal.  All in all, a good night, and fish tacos tomorrow.  The Marcum worked great, although the Vex would have been just as good.  Either way, Ray Charles could have filled a 5 gallon bucket tonight. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Mar 25, 2013, 08:31 AM
you will still get one more weekend out there. can you say yellows on April 1st........

ice is great and fish are biting.

124 yellows 31 over 9", 5 over 10". couple bonus whites too.

8-9' spikes seem to be the hot bait yesterday.

good luck
Chris
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ratherBfishN on Mar 25, 2013, 01:15 PM
Fished the little lake tonight in 17 fow.  caught fish continuously, mostly yellows, with a few perch and dink walleyes mixed in.  caught some really nice yellows.  I used spikes, wax wor,s. minnows and gulp.  spikes was by far the best bait.  I got a lot more on verticle jigs versus horizontal.  All in all, a good night, and fish tacos tomorrow.  The Marcum worked great, although the Vex would have been just as good.  Either way, Ray Charles could have filled a 5 gallon bucket tonight.

Thanks for the updates and the laughs!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jumbo chaser on Mar 25, 2013, 04:56 PM
Sounds like fishing is fast a furious . How thick is your ice?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Iowan on Mar 25, 2013, 07:00 PM
Drilled and sat on one hole for a couple hours and caught fish consistently without having to move bounce around searching.  Plenty of ice on little lake although I did not measure. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jagerdog on Mar 25, 2013, 08:12 PM
There was at least 18" of ice yesterday.  I could haul my mother in law's fat kiester in the back of my 3/4 ton jeep and not go through.  Not sure how I would get her up there.  Maybe roll her down a hill or throw a Little Debbie in the back....

I seldom drive on the ice.  I have a fleet of sleds I tow.  The auger is starting to get heavt, so maybe next year I'll rig my 4 wheeler for ice travel.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tazzzer on Mar 26, 2013, 07:48 PM
coming up there tomorrow morning. just wondering how the edge is . is it able to get on to the ice .
thanks
 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Fisherman-Andy on Mar 27, 2013, 10:53 AM
Anyone got an ice report for Clear?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Mar 27, 2013, 11:34 AM
plenty of ice.....edge is what can be in question... you need to check that for your self.

at this point in the season conditions change hourly.

people are fishing and catching.

be safe
Chris
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crowbait on Mar 27, 2013, 09:47 PM
A few were driving out today, getting on was starting to soften a bit but still OK tonight. Spikes and minnow heads were about even for me. Bigger ones came on minnow pinched
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Mar 29, 2013, 06:50 PM
Had a good day today.  Fishing was great right from the start! We used mudbugs and buckshot spoons. The ice was 15-18 with 3 to 4 inches of slop on top. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Fisherman-Andy on Apr 04, 2013, 04:41 PM
Anyone been on Clear?  Need a late ice report for this weekend.  Thanks!

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Apr 04, 2013, 06:09 PM
fished off farmers mon pm had to pick my way onto the ice once on ice was good 15-18" but ice came out in pieces not powder not to much luck on yellows only 14 keepers lot of dinks.  got 3 cats 4-5# plus had 1 break my line & lost another. 3 I got all had dinks in there bellies. after temps today & tomorrow use your own discreation
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Apr 04, 2013, 10:45 PM
The ice is toast. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: notime on Nov 26, 2013, 04:08 PM
Bump
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Nov 26, 2013, 04:59 PM
Tommorow ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coldfisherman on Nov 26, 2013, 05:12 PM
Tommorow ;D
Well it's been plenty cold. Just gonna walk out with a portable?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Nov 26, 2013, 06:24 PM
Yes sir.....That's the plan at least....
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Oldbear on Nov 26, 2013, 09:09 PM
C/B where are you hangin your hat these days ?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Nov 27, 2013, 12:17 AM
How thick is the ice on little lake
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: toofuss on Nov 27, 2013, 07:56 PM
well?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Nov 27, 2013, 08:10 PM
Oldbear: I'm still in the North Central Iowa area...

Little lake on the west end was 3-4 inches(estimated) and silky smooth.  Even some kite skaters out there covering most the lake.  After a few more cold nights and the slight warmup it should be good to go for quads next week.  Houses in a week and a half i'm guessing.  Fishing was piss poor lotsa lookers no takers.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SHANTYTOWN on Nov 29, 2013, 01:12 AM
A lot of lookers and no takers :-\
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Nov 29, 2013, 10:38 PM
We fished Clear most of the day and managed a few small eaters. Found a few perch today also. It would be great to see them make a good come back.

(http://i42.tinypic.com/2mw5hjb.jpg)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SpoonieLuv on Nov 30, 2013, 09:13 AM
IAEYE were you on the little lake or the BIG one. Nice bunch of yellows and a beauty of a crappie.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: redshackdistrict on Nov 30, 2013, 03:15 PM
Thats a nice pile... How was the ice up that way? It was 65 here today so thinking about heading north tomorrow. I can't wait any longer, need to get some fish on the ole short poles.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Oldbear on Nov 30, 2013, 06:54 PM
Redshack I think you need a new thermometer I live 25 miles straight East of you and its half that temp now.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Agronomist_at_IA on Dec 01, 2013, 02:57 AM
We fished Clear most of the day and managed a few small eaters. Found a few perch today also. It would be great to see them make a good come back.

(http://i42.tinypic.com/2mw5hjb.jpg)

To bad those weren't perch instead of yellows!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Dec 01, 2013, 08:53 AM
Anyone heading out to clear lake today? I'm heading out for the afternoon.
If anyone wants to join another great fishing page please check out iowa fishing reports and conditions page on facebook!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: cyclones30 on Dec 01, 2013, 09:00 AM
We were on the little lake yesterday and it was slooooooooow. Everyone else said the same thing. Caught a few yellows but very slow.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Dec 01, 2013, 09:04 AM
Yeah. Were you on McIntosh?  I think one we get sine snow or should pick up.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: cyclones30 on Dec 01, 2013, 09:03 PM
Yeah I was, sounded like the others out there on Sat had the same experience. Today and Friday were a little better. Go figure...  ::)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 03, 2013, 08:48 PM
The ice took a hit but it wasn't bad.  Should be great by Saturday or Sunday. Just a little heads up if your fishing over 8ft your fishing to deep.  At least that's what I have seen.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Dec 03, 2013, 08:51 PM
How thick is it now?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: toofuss on Dec 03, 2013, 09:22 PM
I heard 4-6 from crazy minnow but thats not first hand so take with a grain of salt.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Dec 03, 2013, 09:34 PM
It was a good 5 inches before all the warm weather
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Dec 06, 2013, 05:21 PM
I saw some brave souls out on Little Lake this morning when it was -3º  Did anybody have any luck?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: notime on Dec 08, 2013, 06:13 PM
How's the bite been. Trying to get caught up on work so I can get out next weekend
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: TTAVENIER3 on Dec 10, 2013, 08:04 PM
anyone know what the lakes like. trying to finish my new ice shack so i can get out this weekend. hoping its good enough ice for my perm shed.  on another not anyone know of the best way to run piping for my lp system. i have 3 appliances to run lp for. its an old pop up frame so it has dual tanks  set up already on the front then it runs down to the frame and stops. looks like what ever was there befor is gone know. im curious if i can run a couple tees down there and make some hydraulic hoses at my work or do i need to use something specific. anyone have any ideas
thanks in advanced.
Terry T
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 10, 2013, 10:28 PM
seen two trucks drive out today.  little lake must be around 10" Plus
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Dec 11, 2013, 11:54 AM
Havent been over that way in about 2 weeks, sounds like the ice is treating us very well and hopefully going to the shack out very soon. Any luck on little lake? Dont forget to stay safe and always check out Iowa fishing reports and conditons on fb!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 11, 2013, 05:46 PM
10 1/2 inches on the main lake.  Drove the truck out.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Dec 12, 2013, 11:53 AM
a couple of the goose holes have froze over so be careful crossing the big lake.  The ice is pretty good all over but just be careful. 12" in the little lake. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: cyclone on Dec 14, 2013, 02:24 PM
Thinking of heading out early tomorrow morning......is it worth going to farmers?   I also have a few of the reefs (im a stay away from the crowd type of guy) on the north side of the lake marked.........is everyone in the little lake so far?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Dec 18, 2013, 12:04 AM
its been a dead sea on here.....hopefully we are all fishing! hows the little lake been? taking the shack out thurday morning i believe
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Dec 20, 2013, 02:09 PM
You must be catching them. When the CL thread gets buried, usually means they're on the ice yanking them.

Can I get an ice report? How many inches? How's the accesses? Thanks.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Dec 20, 2013, 02:42 PM
   12" at most  Wed.  Some people driving at Mac & Farmers????
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 20, 2013, 05:55 PM
10-13 inches on little lake.  Snow cover is minimal can still get around in cars 1/2 tons are good to go out too I would wait for a few more inches before bringing anything bigger out.  Fishing has been pretty slow lots of lookers and not many takers.  Think we need a few inches of snow for the fishing to improve.  Average yellow is pretty small this year.  Lots of tiny smalleyes and crappies.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 21, 2013, 08:47 PM
Watched a car and a full size truck drive thru the channel area tonight.  That connects the little lake to big lake....Surprised they didn't make the six o clock news. The DNR "should" have thin ice markers through there since a few people have dumped it and even died there.  They got lucky this time.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Dec 21, 2013, 10:02 PM
Watched a car and a full size truck drive thru the channel area tonight.  That connects the little lake to big lake....Surprised they didn't make the six o clock news. The DNR "should" have thin ice markers through there since a few people have dumped it and even died there.  They got lucky this time.

I remember when that guy drowned in the channel. It happened in 2004. Here's the article.

http://globegazette.com/news/local/duty-to-a-brother-ventura-man-s-body-recovered-from/article_f0044bd1-de06-5fb9-ba57-a33e80a94616.html
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SpoonieLuv on Dec 22, 2013, 09:49 AM
How do you guy's travel between the lakes? Is it safe to drive over the little beach then back onto the big lake, just make sure to stay away from the connecting channel?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 22, 2013, 02:55 PM
Drive off the ramp and take the highway around.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SpoonieLuv on Dec 22, 2013, 08:32 PM
I was planning on using my Ranger xp, don't really want to drive it on the highway if possible. ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: russjess on Dec 22, 2013, 08:54 PM
Got 75 yellows in 2 hours pretty fun
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Dec 23, 2013, 09:32 AM
Yes. People just need to stay out of that channel. It looks inconspicuous but can be a danger. Get into the habit of taking the highways around then back on.  that article does a nice job of explaining why that area is so dangerous. They really should post signs stating "No travel".

How's it been over by the island or N shore around those reefs?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 23, 2013, 09:11 PM
Fishing is slow at best.  Our shack picked up a 39in muskie today though. Starting to drift up pretty good out there.  Farmers access was blown in quite a bit.  Macintosh woods was plowed out.  SE Marsh access was not bad.  Ice was 14+ main lake and building quite a bit.  Warmest I seen today was -3 and its supposed to hit -19 tonight.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Huntindave on Dec 26, 2013, 01:24 PM
How much snow cover is on the main lake?  I'd like to come over Saturday but I only have a F150 4x4 to drive out onto the ice. (no wheeler or sled)  Is the ice bare enough to drive a truck most places?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 26, 2013, 07:15 PM
If you have decent all terrain tires you wont have a problem.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Huntindave on Dec 27, 2013, 09:37 AM
If you have decent all terrain tires you wont have a problem.

Thanks,  I've got the stock tires which are not real aggressive, but the tread depth is OK.  I may risk it and give it a shot.  Thanks for the reply.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Dec 27, 2013, 02:30 PM
Looking to pinpoint some muskie. Right now I am positioned on the little lake and wondering if there is any on the little lake and an idea where at?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jagerdog on Dec 28, 2013, 07:25 PM
Fished the Little Lake today and caught lots of yellows.  They came in two sizes- teeny and tiny.  My marcum was lit up almost all day and I caught a ton of 3-4 inchers.  I managed enough keepers to make a meal and was gifted a Crappie along the way.  I expected to get some bigger fish towards dark, but they never materialized.  I hope this isn't how the year id gonna go..... :-\
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Kevin23 on Dec 28, 2013, 08:39 PM
Is there a place on clear where a guy could walk out without an ATV and get some fish? Yellows would be fun, always wanted to fish clear lake yellow bass. I know nothing about the lake, never been there. Just want to try something new. I would be pulling my clam nanook for my father to fish in, so long walk is out of the question unless its smooth ice.

I know is kind of a cliche, but I really don't want to ask for anyone's spots... just point me towards a community hole or a place to get on the ice and a general direction to head, I'll figure out the rest. I can assure you I will fish it once every 2 years if I'm lucky, so you'll probably never even know I was there.  ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: cyclones30 on Dec 28, 2013, 09:21 PM
McIntosh Woods St Park ramps lead you onto the little lake and yellows most of the time, very short walk. Farmers beach area can be ok too coming from the south.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: squ1rr31_ on Dec 28, 2013, 10:09 PM
Farmers would be another good spot BBK, just park on the road and walk out,  once you see the holes start drilling.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 29, 2013, 12:12 PM
Heck with walking out ;)  Drive out theres more than enough ice.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Huntindave on Dec 29, 2013, 12:23 PM
I fished the main lake yesterday (Saturday Dec.28th)   Sixteen inches of ice and relatively little snow.  Drove my pickup in two wheel drive mode without difficulty.  Caught a few small yellow bass but nothing to write home about.  I don't know the lake so it was just a crap shoot but still better out on the ice than sitting at home.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 29, 2013, 12:40 PM
It's been the slowest year I have ever experienced there been fishing the lake for 15+ years.  Sure it can be good if you want to catch itsy bitsy yellows all day that aren't even worth filleting.  Or them 8-10 inch walleyes.  Maybe get lucky and catch 5 or 10 6-9inch crappies. 2 or 3 years ago the yellows were actually decent sized which made it not half bad now not so much.  Last year there was a fair crappie bite for about 3 weeks.  Not really a lake to get your hopes up on anymore in my opinion.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ranger185 on Dec 29, 2013, 03:59 PM
Looking to pinpoint some muskie. Right now I am positioned on the little lake and wondering if there is any on the little lake and an idea where at?
Are you serious? Surely you are kidding and you got me. Ha Ha. Good one!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jagerdog on Dec 29, 2013, 06:04 PM
I'm with you Crappie Buster on the lousy fishing on Clear Lake.  I have caught yellows for years on CL, but the tiny fish this year are rediculous.  What gives?  You think the fish are stunted?  Did the dredging affect things?  This lake is dismal right now.... ???
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: squ1rr31_ on Dec 30, 2013, 08:00 AM
Maybe the yellows are finally getting fished out. Just remember not to put them back!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: mjmeyer on Dec 30, 2013, 08:25 AM
I doubt if they're fished out. The larger sized year-class that were being targeted may have been replaced by a smaller sized, but more dominant year-class. Soon those large numbers of small fish will be breeders and will lead to the next dominant year-class. Called recruitment.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Oldbear on Dec 30, 2013, 08:53 AM
Fished out never this is just their cycle.  I remember twice when they had extreme kill offs but they came back more than ever just a part of it.  Shore were lined with a white surf of dead fish which at  the time I had to help clean up.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 30, 2013, 12:29 PM
I think the low water levels a few years in a row have something to do with it at least for the yellows.  And the DNRS budget isn't what it used to be so that means less intensive stocking I'd imagine.  Wish we could get a DNR fisheries biologist to become a member on Ice Shanty that would help answer lots of our questions.  And answer any questions about rules and regulations also.  As for targeting muskies on that lake thru the ice find adjacent structure setup off of it with large baits just right under the ice like 5 foot.  Muskies are the king ding a lings and always ride high in the water column.  Ive seen many come thru just right beneath the ice.  Hope this helps.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jagerdog on Dec 30, 2013, 04:38 PM
Sounds reasonable CB.  I still think there are yellows to be caught.  We did well in the spring on 7-8" fish, they just werent there this last time out.  I've just never caught these tiny ones in such numbers before.  As for walleyes, I think we are a long ways from decent numbers of legal fish.  It will take some extraordinary measures before this lake is what it was 10 years ago.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ranger185 on Dec 30, 2013, 08:37 PM
Sounds reasonable CB.  I still think there are yellows to be caught.  We did well in the spring on 7-8" fish, they just werent there this last time out.  I've just never caught these tiny ones in such numbers before.  As for walleyes, I think we are a long ways from decent numbers of legal fish.  It will take some extraordinary measures before this lake is what it was 10 years ago.
It will take.....extraordinary measures.....before this lake is what is was 10 years ago. Hmmmm. Wonder, oh wonder why that might be?

Flash forward to Yellow Bass Bonanza 2015. The winners, Todd Bucketfiller and Jim Gamehog, are being interviewed.

Interviewer; Todd and Jim, your winning weight was 4 fish at 3.2 ounces. Tough bite today. How did you do it? Jim; well we drilled 25000 holes today. After our fifteenth set of blades we caught that last fish, a 2 incher, that put us over the top. We would like to thank our sponsor Stikemaster for providing us with the Super 98 auger which is capable of drilling so many holes on half a gallon of gas.

Interviewer; Todd and Jim, it seems the Yellow Bass bite has really dropped off in Clear the last few years. What are your thoughts on this? Todd; Well, years ago the ice fishing boom took off and we were determined to rid this lake of the invasive species known as Yellow Bass. Even though they had worked for this lake for decades, and thousands of people enjoyed them throughout the year, it seemed to be the right thing to do. So we ice fisherman encouraged everyone we could to come on out and catch these invasive fish that were ruining the lake. And, boy, did the ice fisherman show up. Hundreds, thousands of them. All with new gear, electronics, you name it. We even encouraged them to throw what ever Yellows didn't want to keep on the ice to feed the eagles and crows so that the lake would be free of them. Apparently our strategy has worked as we believe that we have caught the last remaining Yellow Bass in the lake. By our estimation, there are none, I repeat none, left out there. We would like to thank our sponsors for being able to do that.

Interviewer; Did you see any other fish being caught out there today? Jim; Yes. The new 6 inch keeper rule on walleyes is really paying off. We noted several limits being caught today. The DNR keeps pumping those small fish in there so we need to keep pulling them out so they don't get over populated. They are hard to fillet but if you get a pair of 3.00 readers you have a chance. Our sponsors sell those glasses so just go to their website.

Interviewer; Any other catches to note? Todd; Yes. the 8 inch crappie bite has been on fire a couple of years ago. Seems the dredging cleared up the water and led to a boom in weeds and crappies. I think we have those under control as well. The small crappies were seen as a stunting problem, even though the lake hadn't see them in years, so we had to get them out of there. Keep in mind that, according to Ice Team, you need your 3.00 power glasses to fillet those fish as well. Thank you to our sponsors for allowing us to do that.

Interviewer; Anything else to add? Jim; yes, we say a 40 inch muskies caught today. Fortunately someone ran over it with their ATV. After that they clubbed it to death. We don't want it eating those 6 inch walleyes.



Interviewer; Thanks Jim and Todd
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crappyfishrman on Dec 30, 2013, 08:44 PM
That was hilarious to read!! Lots of effort put into that post hahaha
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Jan 01, 2014, 08:31 PM
Fishing seemed to be a lot better today. Caught some decent crappie few perch and couple yellows....
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Jan 01, 2014, 09:59 PM
Dear Ranger185

I will start this off by saying I run LUND!!!!!! Was looking at switching over to a plastic boat, but I see it makes fishing skills diminish. Can't afford that!! I don't have much to start with. ;D

I will guess you are fishing the same spot you caught fish last year.....
Water level has increase 3+ feet and all the fish in the lake are free to roam quite a bit more than last year. Makes it a little tougher when they are not trapped in the small lake.

The yellow size is down this year yes 7-8" (very cleanable). Blaming a 4 hour tournament for this....narrow minded to say the least.
If you were out early in the ice season you would have seen hundreds if not thousands of dead yelllows. These were the larger fish YOU desire. These were top of life cycle and some from a disease.
We have been reassured we are not harming the yellows one bit....many conversations have taken place and continue to on the harvest of our resource.
The last thing i would want regardless of proper opinion would be to crash the population of my favorite species to target on ice!!! As guides on this lake its foolish to think we would do something to jeopardize any fish in the lake.

Yes, we promote yellow bass fishing. We don't promote waste of this resource. We release all fish not kept for consumption. Oh, and my wife's Japanese fish prints ( pretty cool). Its an art thing.

So move your shack out of the 20' holes in the little lake and explore all 4000acres of clear lake. Don't blame others for your poor catches.

Walleye fishing has been much better this year. They are over 6" too...more like 14-18" and fat!!  Cleaned 100 yellows yesterday. Caught and released several perch and crappie this year. Don't see any reason to keep a few of those with my bucket of yellows.

That is my fishing report. Get out and look the fish are there!!!

I almost forgot thanks for the free plug.

2015 YBB DATES WILL BE ANNOUNCED FEBRUARY 8TH!!!!!
AFTER THE WEIGH IN.

I know not written as well....guess I like fishing more than writing.

 Good luck the rest of the season
 Chris Scholl



Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Jan 01, 2014, 10:08 PM
Luckydog35 check your pm.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: esox_magnum on Jan 01, 2014, 10:29 PM
I'm sure fishing pressure has nothing to do with low numbers of gamefish, remember the walleye bite a few years ago....As for the yellows they will always be up and down years, IMO I wish we didnt have any,Clear is one of a few lakes thats able to somewhat control them and maintain a decent fisherie...I have never fished it other than for muskies, but will be attending the 2nd annual Yellow tourney....BTW I live on the Iowa Great Lakes bite is poor at best here to, fish are hard to find and even harder to make eat, this by far is the worst ice season I have ever had.... Ihave put in alot of time out already with minimal results... Even some of our normaly hot crappie spots up north is slow at best....
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Jan 02, 2014, 06:59 AM
Before the Big Dredge a lot of guys used to fish for yellows between the northern most tip of the island and Dodges Point. Now you hardly see anyone out there.  I drove by yesterday and only one shack was up. I used to catch quite a few of them there. I don't ice fish anymore because of health, I sure do miss it.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SpoonieLuv on Jan 02, 2014, 08:55 AM
I always wanted to fish around the Island and Dodges, not sure where to put in at though. I do have a UTV so could drive a ways, just not sure where the best place to get on the ice is at.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Jan 02, 2014, 11:10 AM
I always wanted to fish around the Island and Dodges, not sure where to put in at though. I do have a UTV so could drive a ways, just not sure where the best place to get on the ice is at.

Go to Google maps and enter Clear Lake, IA. Click on the + sign to get a closer look. On the south side you will see Woodford Island. Just to the south of the island you will see South Shore Access. Good luck.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Jan 02, 2014, 11:14 AM
thinking about moving over to the big lake. right now i am on the little lake and its seems slower then last year. it has its days but nothing like last year. who knows maybe it will get better. Where are the majority of people at on the big lake? im heading over tomrorow morning to go check out the big lake. how is farmers doing? wanting to catch some walleyes
 :tipup:.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 02, 2014, 01:38 PM
HA! We were on the big lake and moved back to the small lake.  Lots of people scratching their heads.  It's been a poor bite at best all year even early ice was nothing to write home about.  Brutal cold isn't helping either. When its -10 to -15 everynite and barely makes it above 0 during the day the fish get effected also.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 02, 2014, 06:57 PM
Hey locals, can we get an update on the accesses & snow cover on the lake? Huge 4x4's needed or what? Can smaller vehicles traverse the pond? Thanks & good luck all!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Jan 02, 2014, 08:31 PM
I seen small 2 wheel drive cars on the lake today. Both big lake and little lake. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jagerdog on Jan 10, 2014, 03:56 PM
I fished Monday from 1p.m. to dark and did pretty well.  Lots of small yellows and crappies, but I did catch a mess of nice crappies and some decent yellows.  Small jigs and spikes were the best, but I got plenty on gulp minnows, grubs, and honey worms.  I didn't keep any, but had a blast.

I was in 22 feet of water and my Marcum LX-7 was lit up the entire time.  Almost everything was suspended, up to 6ft down.  Crappies were all 19 feet or so, yellows up higher.  All in all agreat day, but the 4 inchers can be trying.  In a few years, they will be incredible though....
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Jan 11, 2014, 10:49 PM
Whats the good word on clear? havent been over that way for about 2 weeks.....i know something has got to be wrong but ive been to busy! hoping to get over there soon! last time i was over there people were moving wheel houses back and forth to little to big lake not knowing what to do.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Trump on Jan 15, 2014, 12:47 PM
Lookin for some info is it worth coming up for a day
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 15, 2014, 02:01 PM
Yes any info please. I will be taking my 6 yr old boys for their first ice fishing trip and with Grampa (my dad who introduced me to ice fishing 38 or so yrs ago). They are so excited & can't stop asking question, particularly the one boy. The other is pretty apprehensive I think. Anyway, I don't need spots. Just wanting to know if it's been active enough to keep them interested. Most likely on the Little Lake. I don't want them to get turned off on the first trip. Thanks.

Is there 15-16" of ice yet?

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IAEYE on Jan 16, 2014, 07:40 PM
The bite has been good.  We have been finding some fish in the little lake and on the west end of the big lake.  If you are willing to work hard you should be able to catch 50 pretty easy.  There has been a couple crappies caught in the deeper water of the little lake.  22 to 26ft
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Jan 16, 2014, 08:00 PM
what depth are the yellows
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 16, 2014, 08:24 PM
The bite has been good.  We have been finding some fish in the little lake and on the west end of the big lake.  If you are willing to work hard you should be able to catch 50 pretty easy.  There has been a couple crappies caught in the deeper water of the little lake.  22 to 26ft
[/quo

Thanks so much eye. My bud & i usually set up in 22-25 ft of water & get a variety. Of fish including crappies perch & few walleyes. Glad tovhear there is action for the boys.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fuddster28 on Jan 18, 2014, 04:21 PM
Making an end of the week trip to clear lake, anybody have any insight on what they are biting on and FOW to try.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 18, 2014, 11:14 PM
We were in 17-18 fow today & didn't catch crap, fwiw.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: mjmeyer on Jan 19, 2014, 04:54 AM
How much snow is on the ice on Clear Lake & the little lake?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 19, 2014, 01:33 PM
Not much. Two wheel drive fine. Im on with a van. No problem or drifts. Acces is great as well. No fish though. Dnr check he said not much happening. Disappointed. I've never had it this bad on clear.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Jan 19, 2014, 09:11 PM
Stay away from the aerators, a pickup truck went through the ice.

http://www.kimt.com/news/local/pickup-truck-goes-through-the-ice-on-clear-lake
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishndude on Jan 20, 2014, 07:36 AM
I have pictures.Ill post later. The truck went through just W of Dodges. Looked to me like its sitting right on top of the reef out there?

On a side note, the wife, son and I all went through on our snowmobiles just outside the markers by the downtown beach. It was a loooong way from the aerators!! To say it scared the crap out of all of us would be an understatement. I would have thought  a guy could drive a truck out where it happened?

We were all able to get out without going under thank god, ( I am very thankful that we have talked many times about what to do if this were to ever happen while riding a body of water. They both did a great job. She shed a few tears when back to safety, said " Please dont take me over there again" LOL. )

Be safe out there guys. It definately is making me think twice about ever driving out again!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Jan 20, 2014, 08:10 AM
Yes I can speak from my own experience to stay away from the aerators. One time I was walking just west of Dodges drilling holes. I thought  I was far enough away from the open water. I drilled a hole and there was only about 4" of ice under me, good thing I wasn't driving.  When the wind blows hard it doesn't take long to erode the ice.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishndude on Jan 20, 2014, 08:54 AM
(http://)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 23, 2014, 03:11 PM
Yes I can speak from my own experience to stay away from the aerators. One time I was walking just west of Dodges drilling holes. I thought  I was far enough away from the open water. I drilled a hole and there was only about 4" of ice under me, good thing I wasn't driving.  When the wind blows hard it doesn't take long to erode the ice.

I don't think it was so much the wind that eroded the ice. The guy at Crazy Minnow made it sound like an ice sheet relatively close to the aerator broke loose & prob left a swath where it may have started to refreeze but not to the ice depth of the rest. I think this is what happens on occasion, especially around where the aerators are. Just be careful on the big lake. The little lake is fine. The DNR on a fish survey the other day said they did an oxygen check & found low % of oxygen on the bottom. He thinks they are deprived on the bottom which is consistent with the horrible bite. He did say to try up a few feet from the bottom which is what we saw on the locator. they did seem to be up in the water column some. The water was real murky as well last Sunday. That didn't help.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: spazly120 on Jan 27, 2014, 09:50 PM
any new news about clear lake, thought about heading up there for the first time this year, didnt know if it would be worth the drive? had a buddy go up there 2-3 weeks ago and got skunked, so im nervous i guess...
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jumbo chaser on Jan 27, 2014, 11:34 PM
How thick is the ice we have 12-14" down south just wondering ?   Definitely the low oxygen is slowing the fishing down because we had more snow on the ice down here and the oxygen is low but I adjusted my presentation and caught probably 50 crappies an hour after that switch then I used up all my secret weapon (Maki plastics in pink - glow red ) and after that the fish were on fire  :icefish: :icefish: :clap:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 28, 2014, 09:48 PM
Oh. I would estimate 30+ inches of ice. My auger was well over 3/4 down before punched through.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: spazly120 on Jan 29, 2014, 12:52 AM
absolutly, ive had awesome luck with the pink/glow red maki plastics this season. On all sorts of species, Crappies, gills, trout, and perch. but especially crappies, love them
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: mjmeyer on Jan 29, 2014, 11:11 AM
30+ inches! I'm not sure how much ice my Eskimo Stingray can handle w/o an extension. I'll be there in a week and will find out, I guess, but has anyone actually measured?
 If I need to get quick extension, I better be looking now!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 29, 2014, 04:04 PM
30+ inches! I'm not sure how much ice my Eskimo Stingray can handle w/o an extension. I'll be there in a week and will find out, I guess, but has anyone actually measured?
 If I need to get quick extension, I better be looking now!


The guy at the bait shop said 15", but all in our party thought it was well over. Somewhere around 25", give or take some. We didn't need an extension, but on that first hole I was wondering after expecting 15. Finally went thru though. The locals would know for sure.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: mjmeyer on Jan 29, 2014, 04:16 PM

The guy at the bait shop said 15", but all in our party thought it was well over. Somewhere around 25", give or take some. We didn't need an extension, but on that first hole I was wondering after expecting 15. Finally went thru though. The locals would know for sure.
I investigated Eskimo's website, my Eskimo has a 42" shaft, so no problem...yet.
Thanks,
Mike
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Feb 17, 2014, 08:19 PM
Omg!! Bump. This thread never gets buried to page 3. What's. Going on over there? Lake dry up or what?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Feb 18, 2014, 04:28 AM
A partner and I fished the tourney up there.  It was tough finding quality fish, but we took in 50 quality fish which was great for only having 20 total (including small ones) for the first half of the tournament.  Pre fishing I would guess we caught over 300 on Friday.  To accomplish this we fished little lake which was going to be our last resort during the tournament if stuff really hit the fan.  It was nothing to catch 25 fish in very short order (as fast as you could as soon as it hit bottom) on little lake.  Speaking of short, those hogs were around 3" each!!  It should be one heck of a lake in 2 years for those yellows.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jumbo chaser on Feb 18, 2014, 03:32 PM
I finally got my extention delivered today was so glad to see it because where im going its over 30" and still growing
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Feb 19, 2014, 04:09 PM
Anyone getting into any quality yellows out there?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Feb 25, 2014, 10:08 AM
How much snow is on the little lake?

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Mar 06, 2014, 04:53 PM
Anyone been getting anything out here?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Mar 12, 2014, 07:30 PM
Anyone been getting into anything? I went out last weekend, fished all day, drilled til the gas tank went empty, maybe 50-75 holes, caught about 50 3 inch yellows with 4 quality 9-10s in the little lake
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Mar 13, 2014, 02:07 AM
When fishing the tournament and prior I never caught quality fish out of little lake this year (last year was a different story).  Big lake had by far better quality.  I'm just curious if a person can get around on big lake with a truck or if there is too much snow on top?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SpoonieLuv on Mar 14, 2014, 09:13 AM
Can some locals shed light on the snow situation please. How much slush etc...
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Mar 15, 2014, 09:27 PM
Can some locals shed light on the snow situation please. How much slush etc...

They seemed to be pretty tight lipped this year. There were literally only 3-4 pages since ice set up this year.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Sep 06, 2014, 10:59 PM
Getting ready to restock the tackle box for hardwater, opinions on best baits for running and gunnin Clear for a little of everything? Yellows, eyes, craps?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icyclone on Sep 11, 2014, 07:49 AM
my go-to is usually a Swedish pimple tipped with waxies or spikes, seems to catch just about anything
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Agronomist_at_IA on Sep 14, 2014, 09:49 PM
acme kastmasters and vmc tumbler spoons are good too!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Agronomist_at_IA on Oct 20, 2014, 01:50 AM
So are most of hou clear lake guys targeting Yellow bass? Do they taste like perch? How the numbers and size?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Oct 20, 2014, 01:03 PM
Yellow bass aren't bad.....Don't know if they taste like a perch though. The size is way down in Clear Lake the past few years hopefully this year they are big enough to make a fillet.  Was pretty pitiful last year had the numbers but not the size.  That's fishing though ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Agronomist_at_IA on Oct 20, 2014, 09:40 PM
Yellow bass aren't bad.....Don't know if they taste like a perch though. The size is way down in Clear Lake the past few years hopefully this year they are big enough to make a fillet.  Was pretty pitiful last year had the numbers but not the size.  That's fishing though ;D


I serched up on them, sounds like the meat is white and flaky. Pretty good eating I guess. However, they sound like they grow fast to about 6in in 1-2years, and then it takes time to get them bigger to the 8-12 range. Kinda almost like a bluegill. First 6in comes easy next 6inches takes forever.

to bad the DNR cant breed a fish which reproduces like a yellow bass, tasted like perch, grew to 12inches in 2-3 YEARS, hit jigs like a crappie, and was easy to find like a bluegill.     
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Oldbear on Oct 21, 2014, 08:23 PM
They are a fine eating fish but a rarity to get any with size to them. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Buckshots on Oct 21, 2014, 08:47 PM
to bad the DNR cant breed a fish which reproduces like a yellow bass, tasted like perch, grew to 12inches in 2-3 YEARS, hit jigs like a crappie, and was easy to find like a bluegill.   
They do. It's called a yellow bass.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Agronomist_at_IA on Oct 22, 2014, 06:40 PM
They do. It's called a yellow bass.

According to what i've read to get a yellow bass to 12inches it would take about 5years of perfect growth not one or two. Most only reach 9in and are at end of life cycle then that's 4inches short of a 12inch fish.


In Iowa, yellow bass grow rapidly, reaching an average of 4 inches in the first year, 7 inches the second, 9 inches the third and 10 inches at the end of the fourth year of life. Both sexes mature at age III and few adults live beyond 4 or 5 years. Being the smallest sized fish in the temperate bass family in the state, yellow bass rarely exceed three-fourths pound in weight. The largest specimen taken by angling weighed 1 pound, 5 ounces, and was caught from Clear Lake, and a specimen of equal weight was caught in a gravel pit in Blackhawk





 Similar with the white bass, the yellow bass is known for being a schooling fish, relating to bottom structures more in comparison with the white bass. As far as their reproduction is concerned, they spawn from March until May as water temperatures approach 60 degrees. They prefer spawning over rocky gravel areas with water currents or circulation. The eggs are adhesive and sink as they are fertilized. In 4 to 6 days, the eggs hatch. These fish are known for being slow growers, reaching 4-5 inches the first year and growing only 1-2 inches per year thereafter. They reach sexual maturity (6-7 inches) in two years. The young fish feed primarily on fish, crustaceans, and insects. Adults often eat large quantities of fish, and may even cannibalize their own young. Schools are most often found in midwater or near the surface.
The yellow bass enjoys eating insects, crayfish, shad and small minnows. The most efficient lures used for fishing yellow bass are considered to be jigs, spinners, worms, minnows, small crankbaits and spoons. The meat quality of the yellow bass is quite good. The meat is white, firm and flaky. The red meat along the lateral line may taste a bit “fishy” so its removal will enhance table quality for many people.
Title: Re: Clear Laker
Post by: Buckshots on Oct 22, 2014, 08:07 PM
You've really been studying up on those yellows. Yellow bass aren't stunted in all lakes. Go fish East Lake, there's a good year class and I bet you could catch 100 8-9 inchers in a day easy right now. There's plenty of meat on an 8 inch yellow. Maybe you ought to go try catching a few of them.
Title: Re: Clear Laker
Post by: Agronomist_at_IA on Oct 23, 2014, 08:36 PM
You've really been studying up on those yellows. Yellow bass aren't stunted in all lakes. Go fish East Lake, there's a good year class and I bet you could catch 100 8-9 inchers in a day easy right now. There's plenty of meat on an 8 inch yellow. Maybe you ought to go try catching a few of them.

its fall.....doesnt work to fish with my job in fall.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Buckshots on Oct 23, 2014, 08:55 PM
I'm in the same line of work as you are. There's time to fish in the fall. That excuse only works during spring!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Agronomist_at_IA on Oct 23, 2014, 09:47 PM
I'm in the same line of work as you are. There's time to fish in the fall. That excuse only works during spring!

If I did have time, I'd be chasing waldo.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Ice_Fly_Guy on Oct 26, 2014, 11:06 AM
Before Black Hawk Lake was killed off and renovated,  it consistently produced 9" fish, and it wasn't uncommon to catch them past 11". So, there are instances where they aren't stunted. They were a major problem in this lake, in addition to the carp and shad.  But, it was fun to get 100 fish in a day, that's for sure.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Nov 22, 2014, 11:39 PM
Ice conditions?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Nov 23, 2014, 12:36 AM
Went this afternoon.  5 1/2 inches where I fished on the little lake. Temp rose from 35 to darn near 50 and the wind picked up also.  Sunday night it is going to get cold and start making ice again.  If you go out exercise extreme caution.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: notime on Dec 06, 2014, 06:28 PM
bump
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 08, 2014, 03:17 PM
Dnr report said 5-7 inches on little lake.  And main lake around 4 inches with areas of open water yet.  Last time I was there the bite was pretty bad. Lots of lookers that were probably very very small yellow bass.  And some borderline keepable crappies.  And a few dink eyes.  Which is pretty typical of Clear Lake in the winter.  Hasn't been to productive of a lake hardwater in the past 4 years.  If you don't mind filleting 5-6 inch yellow bass and 7-8 inch crappies you could maybe eek out a meal.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jon1023 on Dec 08, 2014, 03:33 PM
Went over the weekend, never fished it. Was on the little lake probably caught around 5-10 yellows that were not to big, 1 walleye about 8 inches and a perch the same size lol. Caught them all in 15ft. Went out to 20ft where some other guys were and didnt even mark a fish, guys we talked to in 20fow caught 1 fish when we talked to them. Lots of lookers in 15fow but not alot of takers.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tsmith17 on Dec 08, 2014, 05:22 PM
Sounds like fun!  Well, definitely more fun than working!  I'm looking to go try it one of these next few weekends.  When do you guys feel comfortable bringing out the big rigs (trucks)?  I would have thought that with the temps last week that the lake should be making good ice.  I see some of these temps coming that are above freezing and idk.  Wish it would just stay cold.  Would also like to get your opionions on other spots to go an try around North Iowa.  Rice Lake in Lake Mills is no good for the next few years as they killed it off last Winter.  Same with Silver lake up by Northwood.  I have heard good things about crappie and bluegill down to Crystal Lake though.  That is on my list of lakes to hit up this season.  Any other places?  What about that little Bluebill pond right off of I-35 East of Clear Lake or Fin and Feather south of Mason?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Dec 08, 2014, 08:26 PM
Last I heard someone broke through at Crystal last weekend and the lake opened up. With warmer temps this week our local lakes may be following. There were some 10-12 inch craps being taken out of the little lake last week but lots of sorting. Gotta keep moving to find the quality yellows...Lots of 5 inch nibblers...Keep moving till you find some bigger fish....Spoons tend to land the bigger yellows...Little yellows don't show much interest in them
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Dec 10, 2014, 03:19 PM
Once its a consistant 11-12 inches people tend to start driving out. May have to wait a lil longer this year with the 50s coming up junking out the ice.  crapty white ice is 1/2 strength they say.  Already have a few inches of that stuff with more to follow.  If we are driving out by the new year it will be a miracle.  Wish itd get cold and stay cold.  November was a tease!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Dec 11, 2014, 12:48 AM
Heading out tomorrow morning to fish bluebill before the warm temps arrive. Looking for some good perch fishing in area lakes but that is very hard to find. Will let everyone kno how we do.
Title: Clear lake, little lake, Ventura marsh
Post by: coonripper on Dec 18, 2014, 07:57 AM
Want to head there next week while the boy is on xmas break and no wrestling practice. Any ice condition reports would be great.... Thank you
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Dec 18, 2014, 09:00 PM
Wondering what the ice thickness is on little lake? I doubt anybody is driving out yet
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: toofuss on Dec 18, 2014, 09:01 PM
No way dude, Im hearing a soft 4-6
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Dec 18, 2014, 09:03 PM
I figured. Mother nature is being a tough one this year
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: mjmeyer on Dec 19, 2014, 04:44 PM
Is Little Clear Lake doable tomorrow 12/20? Walking, of course.
What about the Big Lake  off MacIntosh ?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tracksnorth on Dec 20, 2014, 05:15 AM
I'd venture to say it would be mjmeyer I live in osage and fish clear lake four or five times a month. Bring picks though and it's been slow,mostly dinks
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: mjmeyer on Dec 20, 2014, 10:22 PM
6 inches of solid clear ice. Not uncomfortable at all. A good 40 people on the ice.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tracksnorth on Dec 20, 2014, 10:38 PM
Outstanding!! Any luck? Unfortunately I'm in Tennessee right now then NC then Florida or else I'd be fishing
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: graybeard1 on Dec 21, 2014, 10:05 AM
It was slow yesterday. Hope you do better today.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishing nut on Dec 22, 2014, 06:07 PM
Hey tracks north I'm also from Osage and would like to get over to the lake and fish a little. PM me and maybe we can help each other find the hot spots.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tracksnorth on Dec 23, 2014, 12:54 PM
Message sent.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ramdriver on Dec 25, 2014, 12:43 PM
Just wondering about ice conditions  thinking about making the drive Saturday if ice is good to go.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: squ1rr31_ on Dec 26, 2014, 10:39 AM
Just wondering about ice conditions  thinking about making the drive Saturday if ice is good to go.


Ditto, I gotta get out!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MidnightRambler on Dec 26, 2014, 10:56 AM
I was up near Clear Lake yesterday for the holidays. Ponds fifty miles south of there were mostly or entirely open, as was George Wyth lake on the north side of W-loo.

Ponds thirty miles south of CL--as close as I got--were open at the edges, and looking very bad in the middle.

Personally, I would not bother driving to Clear Lake from any distance at all without a good reliable report that there is still good ice there. If you do go, BE CAREFUL.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Dec 26, 2014, 01:52 PM
Was out this morning ice was about 5 inches. Ice was junk around the edges. Ice was definitely talking quite a bit had some cracks come under the portable. Always be cautious
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Dec 26, 2014, 02:44 PM
I bet there were 30/40 people on the ice on little lake when I drove past this morning at 10.  Did you even look at little lake or just guess?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Dec 26, 2014, 02:46 PM
That said I would take a spud bar
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Dec 26, 2014, 02:53 PM
Was on little lake. Didn't even think about big lake. So yes I was out there with the cluster of people
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Dec 26, 2014, 04:16 PM
Sorry ice fisher, I meant the guy who posted he wouldn't drive to clear based on ponds south without going to the lake. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Huntindave on Dec 26, 2014, 07:01 PM
I bet there were 30/40 people on the ice on little lake when I drove past this morning at 10.  Did you even look at little lake or just guess?

Well, he DID say the closest he got to Clear Lake was thirty miles away,,,,,, so I doubt he could see the lake.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Dec 26, 2014, 08:41 PM
I will give you credit though.  Better safe than sorry.  A report of poor ice with better conditions is better than a good ice report with crap ice conditions!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Dec 27, 2014, 01:22 AM
Life goes on guys. So who went out this morning?!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Dec 27, 2014, 07:19 AM
I'm sorry, it just rubbed me wrong to see all of those ice houses on the lake, then get home to see someone say they wouldn't drive very far to get there due to poor ice conditions (in the area).  It is my fault, mostly due to wishing I could have stopped and fished myself, and I should have left well enough alone before I typed.  Good luck to all of you!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: squ1rr31_ on Dec 27, 2014, 06:27 PM
Classic case of "Should've been here yesterday!" Fished from 9 to noon this morning caught about 20 little yellows myself and one 8" perch,  pretty slow!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Hump4cy on Dec 28, 2014, 06:12 AM
What is the ice thickness, and conditions like? Thanks
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Joboo2334 on Dec 28, 2014, 08:18 PM
Ice on the little lake is good, fishing was a different story. A good 6 " of ice. I felt comfy the whole time. Felt good to be fishing.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SouthBear on Dec 30, 2014, 09:16 AM
Does anyone have a list of reefs with gps coordinates for clear lake? I just installed the
Navionics app and wanted to plug in some fishing spots. Any help would be appreciated.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Huntindave on Dec 30, 2014, 05:01 PM
http://www.iowadnr.gov/Portals/idnr/uploads/fish/maps/cle17.pdf (http://www.iowadnr.gov/Portals/idnr/uploads/fish/maps/cle17.pdf)  The local bait shop will have maps with the coordinates or you can compare this map with contour line to google earth and get your coordinates from that. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: kramz1992 on Jan 02, 2015, 08:26 PM
Anyone have any reports going into the weekend?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Larrycindyus on Jan 03, 2015, 08:45 AM
A buddy and I made the drive yesterday. Caught one dink walleye, yellow perch, couple dozen yellow bass, and one 11 inch crappie. We fished for about 9 hours. Nothing spectacular but is was finally GREAT to be on ice!!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CL_UCS on Jan 03, 2015, 04:49 PM
Spent 12-315pm out on the ice this afternoon on the west side of little lake. Fished at 10 feet. The vexilar was pretty active. Ended up with 2 perch using wax worms. Threw them back in. Talked to a couple of other fishers and heard some good success fishing at 20' and off the bottom.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SouthBear on Jan 03, 2015, 07:11 PM
Fished little lake 10' 1:30-4:30 today. Threw back 5 perch kept 2 decent crappie. No yellows. Clam xl jig with maki white mino. Marked a lot of fish. Ice was 8"
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Jan 04, 2015, 11:06 AM
Fished the little lake on the 2nd.  Stayed there about 3 hours.  We kept 4 nice crappies, 1 9.5" perch, and one yellow.  Threw back a decent amount of small perch and yellows.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Schmitty13 on Jan 05, 2015, 06:40 AM
Hey guys, new to Clear Lake, and would like to get some fishing in this winter.  If anyone would be willing to PM me with some "tips" or spots fishing the lake, little or big, it would be greatly appreciated!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Jan 05, 2015, 03:00 PM
The 2015 YBB is full at this time.

 This event will have 500 anglers battling for the coveted YBB title.

Thanks to everyone that entered.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: mjmeyer on Jan 05, 2015, 09:01 PM
The 2015 YBB is full at this time.

 This event will have 500 anglers battling for the coveted YBB title.

Thanks to everyone that entered.

Thanks for all your hard work! See you on the ice.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: coonripper on Jan 07, 2015, 06:07 AM
Anyone out in this miserable mess? Looking to head up next Tuesday or Wed. Hoping the cold weather subsides. Any bait or lure suggestions? 1st time ice fishing clear leake
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: mjmeyer on Jan 07, 2015, 06:08 AM
Red spikes.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Schmitty13 on Jan 07, 2015, 06:29 AM
Gunna head out on Friday, first time fishing Clear Lake, any suggestions would be appreciated
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SouthBear on Jan 07, 2015, 02:22 PM
Last weekend I used a white clam xl jig with 3 spikes (maggots) had equal success with white or red. Sunday I used white clam xl jig with the clam maki plastic mino( white with red speckles.) I was in 10' water jigging 1' off bottom bouncing it off bottom occasionally.  1/32oz jig
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Schmitty13 on Jan 07, 2015, 03:47 PM
Last weekend I used a white clam xl jig with 3 spikes (maggots) had equal success with white or red. Sunday I used white clam xl jig with the clam maki plastic mino( white with red speckles.) I was in 10' water jigging 1' off bottom bouncing it off bottom occasionally.  1/32oz jig

Thanks SouthBear.  I appreciate the info.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tracksnorth on Jan 07, 2015, 09:11 PM
I didn't make it out but a buddy did. Got into a couple nice crappies but I honestly can't tell you where they set up at tonight
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 08, 2015, 02:57 PM
The way shanty holds them they always look decent. ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tracksnorth on Jan 08, 2015, 05:54 PM
hahahaha you bet they do
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jdw84 on Jan 08, 2015, 10:52 PM
Hoping to bring the 4 wheeler up this weekend and fish the little lake anyone been out there lately hows the ice?

Thanks
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 09, 2015, 04:27 PM
No idea on thickness.  I know they are driving trucks out in certain parts.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Jan 10, 2015, 07:13 AM
Little lake has 12" for the most part.

People venturing over to the farmers beach area you will see more variation in ice.

There were a lot of pockets open before the last freeze.

Would not recommend truck traffic over there yet.

Good luck
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tracksnorth on Jan 10, 2015, 11:55 AM
We measured 13 inches last night on the little lake. Decent crappies in 22fow but they were spooky
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Jan 11, 2015, 07:33 PM
Drove truck out on McIntosh...Ice cracking behind was little Erie  :o Fished 21 fo. Caught about 2 dozen crappie there in about an hour, kept about 10 11-12" and threw back a bunch of smaller ones. Few smaller perch as well...Vexilar was lit up, crappies suspended 10-14 fo....Little perch/yellows laying on bottom. Walked and fished farmers, about a dozen  yellows in 4 hours out there. Didn't mark much.
Yellows=Dingle Drop and spikes
Crappie=Dingle tipped with Maki with a few spikes on top or Slender Spoons tipped with spikes
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tracksnorth on Jan 13, 2015, 09:47 PM
Hoping the crappie bite stays this weekend. Anybody been out these last couple days?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Jan 17, 2015, 10:15 PM
Y'all give up on yellow fishing? Usually this thread is popping with yellow reports....On a side note, those crappies are taking a beating on the Little Lake. Main lake is practically empty...Some permanents, usually no more then a dozen or so out  fishing from portables...compared to the little lake with shacks fishing right on top of each other
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: cyclone on Jan 18, 2015, 09:04 AM
So those eastern Reef's are still dead huh?  I often thought about going back out there because the pressure in the little lake is INCREDIBLE!

That lake's winter dynamics have changed so much in 5 years since they did the drilling.  Used to be a city out there by the island.......now you don't even see one permanent
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tracksnorth on Jan 18, 2015, 09:50 AM
I fished 17fow Friday night through Saturday morning. Crappies hit on jig with a waxie but not a one would hit my minnow.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Jan 18, 2015, 10:30 PM
Anybody ever night fish on little lake? Ive seen a few guys drive putt @about 9ish and later. Wondering if they are having any luck.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Ihawkangler on Jan 19, 2015, 07:05 AM
The little lake is quite the spectacle with every fashion of ice shanty out there from hut to converted 70's campers to fancy wheel houses.  Caught some nice crappies yesterday, but had people in earshot within every direction.  I am becoming a big fan of the Clam plastics ( I am sure others work too), but man, being able to switch from wax worms to something different really made a difference.  They hold up much better and allow you to drop down faster also.  Really fun watching the crappies come flying up to hit your bait.  I certainly did my part for catch and release, as I lost multiple fish to the transducer monster, but it was a good time.  Really nice to fish when you don't worry about your line, hole, eyelets and body parts freezing if outside the hut for more than 10 minutes.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tracksnorth on Jan 19, 2015, 09:33 PM
Icefisher I stayed in the shack Friday night and stayed up fishing until about 3am and the bite wasn't bad. Crappies would come in about every thirty minutes or so. Interesting enough they only hit my waxies and never even touched my minnow.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Jan 19, 2015, 11:37 PM
tracksnorth- i stayed out sunday night. and the bite was pretty much the same as yours. they wouldnt touch the minnow but they hit the waxie and sometimes the plastic. i only stayed out till 12 and someone was just getting set up just before i was leaving. plan on staying the night this weekend. let me know when ya stay out again will have to stop by
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tracksnorth on Jan 20, 2015, 09:22 PM
Will do icefisher. If I can even make it out this weekend I'm not sure whereabouts I'll go. Thinking spirit lake or zumbro up in Rochester
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Jan 22, 2015, 01:07 AM
I hear ya tracksnorth. Would like to go to spirit but not liking these Warmer temps. Only good thing is it gets below freezing at night.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tracksnorth on Jan 22, 2015, 09:30 PM
Agreed I'm not find at all of this weather. They've been slaying the perch over there as well,a gal caught a 13 incher
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Jan 22, 2015, 09:38 PM
I would really like to find some decent perch. Got a craving for em right now!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tracksnorth on Jan 22, 2015, 09:42 PM
You'll get all you want there. If your on Facebook "like" the kabeles page. They are wonderful at posting daily reports and plenty of pictures!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tracksnorth on Jan 22, 2015, 09:43 PM
And tell em Ironbeard sent you
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Jan 22, 2015, 09:44 PM
I'm already a fan of there page. Just wish I could find time to get over there!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crappyfishrman on Jan 23, 2015, 08:30 AM
Who else is getting excited for the yellow bass bonanza?! This is my first year going, and my brother and I can't wait!! Reading through the rules and I can't believe for this tournament you can keep every yellow bass you catch that day, just have to pick out your biggest 50. My question is how many times do you guys go out and catch over 50 yellows between 2 people??? We are gonna go pre fishing Saturday and if we manage to catch 50-100 fish that weekend, I think I will be having a fish fry!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: waterfowlhunter on Jan 23, 2015, 10:38 AM
If you can find the yellows it's not hard to catch 50 in a few hours
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: mjmeyer on Jan 23, 2015, 10:58 AM
Who else is getting excited for the yellow bass bonanza?! This is my first year going, and my brother and I can't wait!! Reading through the rules and I can't believe for this tournament you can keep every yellow bass you catch that day, just have to pick out your biggest 50. My question is how many times do you guys go out and catch over 50 yellows between 2 people??? We are gonna go pre fishing Saturday and if we manage to catch 50-100 fish that weekend, I think I will be having a fish fry!!
This year will be my second year. Caught 7 last year. But the prizes are well distributed. We didn't win anything but hope to be luckier this year. I've been there three times this year and will also pre-fish Friday  and Saturday before the tournament . That serious ? No, it's just a fun place to fish. We WILL do better this year.
Good Luck, Crappyfishrman, and all other participants!
Mike
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IowaHardWater on Jan 23, 2015, 11:33 AM
My brother and I are also fishing in it for our first time this year.  I hope it's a good time, which most days on the ice are a good time.  Maybe one of us will be lucky enough to win a prize even....

I've never fished Clear Lake through the ice, so we'll see how that goes..
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Jan 23, 2015, 04:07 PM
You must be doing something wrong if ya can't catch at least 50 haha. Ya gotta work and stay mobile but catching 50+ really isn't all that complicated. Few tips I've picked up
1.Stick to the main  Lake...Yea there's yellows in the Little Lake but there's just too many dinks and little panfish...Plus most of the bigger fish (9+) will usually be more in the big lake.. Or at least that I've found anyhow. Ik some guys prefer the LL but me along with most of the people I fish with prefer the main lake
2. Stay mobile.
3. Underlining the STAY MOBILE. Drill a ton of holes and if you're not marking don't fish it. Sometimes if I get lazy I'll just drop a jig down and just see if anythings down there but usually if I'm not marking I'm not going to fish it.
4. When you catch one...Get your line back there Pronto. Keep that school in a frenzy...Don't bother drilling a second hole or taking pictures or setting up a shack. Fish that hole out as fast as it spits up fish
5. When a school has left, drill a few holes around the original hole and try and follow that school around.
6. Spoons, spikes, or cutbait are your go to baits. Personally I like to have two rods...One with a spoon and one with a mud bug or dingle drop. 90% of the time it's the jig that catches them..But if I'm marking a ton of fish and they just aren't interested, throw a spoon down and that may turn em on. Spikes and cutbait work well...Not so much waxies...Some guys use minnows but I've always found them a hassle.
7. Make sure to prefish and cover as much water as possible ...Fish all over the west end and find a couple spot for the tourney. Don't stick to one spot as they may either move, be turned off(Finicky...with all the augers and vehicles buzzing around) or a shanty town the day of the torney. Good luck out there!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crappyfishrman on Jan 23, 2015, 05:10 PM
Thanks for the advice bockster! I don't have to many days that i catch more than a 5-10 fish. My brother and i are heading up there very early Saturday before the tourny to drill a ton of holes and hopefully catch fish. I will be happy but my brother will s**t if he catches 25-50 fish. Next time im at the bait shack i will grab some mud bugs.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: vandy19 on Jan 23, 2015, 06:52 PM
Last year was our first year of fishing the tournament, we came in 13th place. We fished the little lake drilled 2 holes and set the shack up and never moved.  We caught 160 yellows and 1 white bass.
It was a very fun tournament, but we spent all our winnings that night at Bennigans.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Jan 24, 2015, 05:46 AM
I believe the first year there weren't quite 40 that caught 50 fish. Around 100 teams caught less than 25 (2013 fished individuals).
Last year teams 182 to 236 didn't weigh.  Could have caught fish and not weighed, or not came to the tourny.
If I'm reading the chart correctly the top 25 teams last year got guaranteed prizes.  1st placed was 10.78lbs  25th was 6.71 LBS.
If you aren't willing to move I personally wouldn't even attempt big lake.  Combined for pre-fishing the day before and then fishing the day of the tourney I'd be willing to bet my partner and I drilled between 250 and 300 holes!  Day of the tournament we caught less than 70 combined.  First year we were on little lake (separate but near you could say) and sat on our first 2 holes all day catching well over 100 each we were about the closest people to the boat ramp.

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Oldbear on Jan 24, 2015, 08:50 AM
Its possible but not quite as simple as it sounds.  You find em you catch em but they don't stay put.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 24, 2015, 10:24 AM
You'll get all you want there. If your on Facebook "like" the kabeles page. They are wonderful at posting daily reports and plenty of pictures!

Yes, they do a good job of posting updates. Unfortunately, they screwed my family out of our last night of lodging this summer. Our party had 2 rooms reserved for a week. Somehow they overbooked our one room the last night. They were willing to shove all 6 of us in the 1 bedroom we had remaining which would not have worked with Grandparents & our two 7 yr olds. This was all they offered. She also wasn't willing to discount the last room that we never stayed in. So, we cut our vacation short a day & went home.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 24, 2015, 10:31 AM
Also, to any of you new guys. Do not drive your vehicle through the narrow channel between the Big Lake and the Little Lake (McIntosh). It looks inconspicuous but is a danger to vehicles as the ice is not as thick thru there. Also, close to the narrows in the big lake to the N can be a tricky place to drive as well. If you want to change to big lake or vise versa, you are better off to drive off either lake and take the roadways around to access the other.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Jan 24, 2015, 01:22 PM
Also, to any of you new guys. Do not drive your vehicle through the narrow channel between the Big Lake and the Little Lake (McIntosh). It looks inconspicuous but is a danger to vehicles as the ice is not as thick thru there. Also, close to the narrows in the big lake to the N can be a tricky place to drive as well. If you want to change to big lake or vise versa, you are better off to drive off either lake and take the roadways around to access the other.

How true that is Melrose, stay away from the channel.  A few years ago a guy drove through the channel, went in and drowned.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Jan 24, 2015, 10:11 PM
You'll get all you want there. If your on Facebook "like" the kabeles page. They are wonderful at posting daily reports and plenty of pictures!


Top notch place on the IGL's and excellent people.  Been staying there for the past 6 years and look forward to it everytime, being it be ice fishing or open water fishing.  Their prices on fishing items a lot of the times are better than you can get at big name stores as well. 






Hit clear lake today with the old man.  We brought home 77 yellows. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Jan 24, 2015, 10:40 PM
Alot of guys pull there shacks off?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bluefin75 on Jan 25, 2015, 03:50 PM
a buddy an I will be fishing the yellow bass bonanza as well. hoping for a good turn out for us but it will be our first time there so we will see how it goes good luck to everyone an tight lines!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Jan 25, 2015, 06:36 PM
Should be a good turn out, it's a full field.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Jan 25, 2015, 06:56 PM
Heading up tomorrow again.  Hoping I get on the yellows like I did on Saturday.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tracksnorth on Jan 25, 2015, 07:04 PM
Lots of guys out yesterday and today and a lot of talk of the bonanza. The crappie bite was good,fished 21FOW and did well. Buckshot with a plastic maki or a waxie seemed to keep their interest. 13 inch was the largest. A few pulled shacks off today. We left ours. Will see what am nature decides to do this week. Also watched a few drive over to the big lake.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crappyfishrman on Jan 25, 2015, 08:35 PM
Ybb posted the boundaries. Now if only i knew how to read the contour lines to put me on the yellow bass hahah :) (https://fbcdn-photos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xap1/v/t1.0-0/10945593_580352145433165_2758258131070433249_n.jpg?efg=eyJpIjoidCJ9&oh=fa175ab363b15cf2d2209036065233bb&oe=555AF072&__gda__=1432816302_e48a9574855de4a60ed96ee0ccd4857c)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Jan 27, 2015, 07:25 PM
Well as usual, some putz drove between the two lakes yesterday and put their truck in.  How many times do people have to hear DON'T drive between the lakes. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tracksnorth on Jan 27, 2015, 07:37 PM
i wonder if it was an older brown f-150. i watched that truck drive through twice. once on saturday and once on sunday
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Jan 28, 2015, 12:31 AM
Tracksnorth. I know exactly who you are talking about. Sunday he was all over the place
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: oldman60 on Jan 28, 2015, 08:17 AM
yep . saw the same truck drive threw there too .. thought he was crazy
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tracksnorth on Jan 28, 2015, 09:12 AM
Hahahahaha interesting
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Jan 28, 2015, 05:45 PM
It wouldn't take much to put up signs, the snowmobiles could still get through.
Here's why you shouldn't drive through the channel.

http://globegazette.com/news/local/duty-to-a-brother-ventura-man-s-body-recovered-from/article_f0044bd1-de06-5fb9-ba57-a33e80a94616.html
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Jan 28, 2015, 08:25 PM
i wonder if it was an older brown f-150. i watched that truck drive through twice. once on saturday and once on sunday

He seems to be out there every day, or everytime I am out there!!  Not sure they even fish just drive all over the place.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tracksnorth on Jan 28, 2015, 10:15 PM
Hahahaha yeah that's absurd. Come to think of it I never saw the guy wet a line
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Jan 29, 2015, 04:48 PM
Pretty sad the DNR can put up thin ice signs every year from the pumphouse aerator to Dodges Point.  But not put any near the channel?  What gives?  Every year someone goes thru near there.  Next year it will be marked.  Avoid narrow areas in any lake like the plague and you will be fine.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Jan 29, 2015, 08:56 PM
Anyone notice anything different with the fish fillets this season?? The yellows and Crappies I've kept this ice season seem to have a really strong muddy odor. Never seen it before. The fillets have a more soft texture. Thawed a bag of crappies out last night and they smelled muddy...Decided to put them in saltwater overnight. Went to fry today and they're all mushy/Literally falling apart. Never seen this before. Fish were caught...Placed in bucket...Cleaned a few hours after I got home then frozen immediately afterwards. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tracksnorth on Jan 29, 2015, 10:08 PM
I sure haven't noticed anything. Heck of a point crappie buster!!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: mrmike113 on Jan 30, 2015, 05:08 PM
We caught 16 crappies the other day same thing tasted nasty.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SouthBear on Jan 30, 2015, 07:09 PM
I haven't noticed but I haven't froze any. I ate them same
Day or within a few days. Was the muddy flavor only with previously frozen?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tracksnorth on Jan 30, 2015, 10:07 PM
I'm heading out tomorrow ill let some freeze and some ill keep in water and see if i taste a difference. provided they bite of course.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crappyfishrman on Feb 02, 2015, 06:03 PM
Starting to get my stuff all gathered for this weekend!! Pretty pumped to fish Saturday and Sunday. Hope the fish are biting better than they are where I live. Dealing with some really stuburn fish right now! Did you guys get a bunch of snow like the eastern part of the state got??
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tracksnorth on Feb 02, 2015, 06:06 PM
Not a whole lot of snow. 8" or so. By this weekend it oughta be good to go.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Feb 02, 2015, 07:43 PM
I hope they bite well.  I took a group of 6 including myself on Saturday.  I'd guess we ended with 300.  Kept about 70.  Plenty of small ones
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 69camaro on Feb 02, 2015, 08:00 PM
How is the ice up there? Debating on bringing my side by side or borrowing a four wheeler for the ybb.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Feb 02, 2015, 08:20 PM
It's your own risk,  but I watched plenty of trucks driving on big lake,  saw a full size van load a 4 wheeler in it and drive across big lake!  Bunch of trucks on little lake too.  Always use caution!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 69camaro on Feb 02, 2015, 08:30 PM
Thanks! I will probably bring my ranger so I'm not borrowing someone else's equipment. I'm sure they will let us know of any danger spots but we plan on fishing Saturday morning since we have never fished clear lake. I know to stay away from the narrow between the lakes and heard there are aerators but also know to stay away from them too! Not looking for any spots but where would be a good spot to "launch". Used to duck hunt Ventura a lot when we owned a shack up there but have never been on clear.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Feb 02, 2015, 08:33 PM
Just go out of mcintosh.  We're planning on running around with a gator
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 69camaro on Feb 02, 2015, 08:42 PM
Sounds good, thanks!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CrappieBuster on Feb 03, 2015, 03:19 PM
Be interesting to see how many of those yellows are six inches or less.  Im willing to bet 90%.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Iowan on Feb 03, 2015, 08:31 PM
Be interesting to see how many of those yellows are six inches or less.  Im willing to bet 90%.

Guess as long as 90% are the same size we have a pretty equal playing field and just need to find a few in the 10% range.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Feb 04, 2015, 05:42 AM
Crappie buster, I hope you're right!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Feb 04, 2015, 08:22 AM
In the past week, we have taken home over 600 yellows.  Cleaned about 550 of them and they were all the 8-10" range.  You just have to know where to go to get the bigger ones.....   ;D  Had a nice bonus 18" male walleye we got as well.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: mjmeyer on Feb 04, 2015, 08:28 AM
In the past week, we have taken home over 600 yellows.  Cleaned about 550 of them and they were all the 8-10" range.  You just have to know where to go to get the bigger ones.....   ;D  Had a nice bonus 18" male walleye we got as well.

Could I have the GPS Coordinates for that spot? Nicely done!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crappyfishrman on Feb 04, 2015, 09:39 AM
A depth range to target would be nice info!! Maybe some advice, like should i fish little lake or big?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Feb 04, 2015, 11:59 AM
Not to be rude guys, but I had to find them myself which took multiple trips up there so I don't share my info.  I will say this get away from the pack and get there early in the morning.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: mjmeyer on Feb 04, 2015, 12:07 PM
I'm sorry, I was trying to be funny.
I've been there three times this winter, myself, and I would think of divulging where I found them OR, as likely, didn't find them.
Good Luck in the Tournament! (Above all, have fun!)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: mjmeyer on Feb 04, 2015, 12:19 PM
43°08'24.05"N   93°23'22.47"W
I bet all the Tournament competitors be at this spot sometime during the weekend.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Feb 04, 2015, 01:15 PM
Good luck to everyone as well!!!  I am leaving for Florida in the morning for a week of saltwater fishing.  Along with peacock bass fishing.  They are on my bucketlist!!!!! ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crappyfishrman on Feb 04, 2015, 03:20 PM
Haha have to try. I wouldn't give hot spots up either. Saturday I will be in a white silverado that has a big white deer sticker on the back window. Feel free to point me towards the fish haha.good luck to everyone
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Feb 04, 2015, 06:59 PM
That sounds like a blast (Florida fishing). Too bad though, I think a guy who has a pail full of 7"-8" fish with 5 kicker tens has a heck of a chance of winning it.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Feb 04, 2015, 07:25 PM
On an added note with the tournament. Please everybody respect people's fishing area. If A guy drills a 10 hole line and is working it don't come and fish the hole he's about to move onto. Ik the rules say if it's outside the 20 ft  or whatever the boundary is you're free to fish it..But use some mannors and don't steal someone's hole he's about to fish. Happened to us last year and it's just really dissapointing to see someone with an entire lake to fish and a $400 auger come up and steal the hole you're about to fish. Good luck everyone and be safe!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crappyfishrman on Feb 04, 2015, 09:50 PM
I won't steal a guys hole if he drills a line. I'll just follow with my marcum and check each hole hahaha jk
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SouthBear on Feb 05, 2015, 09:21 AM
I've been catching a lot of crawdads in my minnow traps this winter. Has anyone ever ice fished with them? Just curious if I should try one on a dead stick. I have also been  catching those 3" long giant underwater bugs ( toe biters).  Any thoughts on using either of these? Or just throw them back?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Ice_Fly_Guy on Feb 05, 2015, 05:24 PM
I'd be interested in knowing if crawdads would work, just out of curiosity.  I think it would certainly be worth trying. Everything that can eat them, does.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SouthBear on Feb 05, 2015, 07:39 PM
I will try a crawdad Saturday night, Sunday morning provided I have one in the trap before I go out. I'm not sure if I should drop it all the way to the bottom or 6" off bottom so it doesn't bury itself into the mud.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crappyfishrman on Feb 05, 2015, 07:53 PM
Whats there for bait shops near clear lake? Any recommendations? Thanks
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tracksnorth on Feb 05, 2015, 08:18 PM
Not much. The crazy minnow company that's about it. They are pretty mediocre as far as stocking hard water stuff. Pretty much have just enough to get by lol
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crappyfishrman on Feb 05, 2015, 08:55 PM
I'll just be looking for waxies then. I will make sure i load up before i leave.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tracksnorth on Feb 05, 2015, 08:57 PM
They have pretty good waxies there but with the tourney coming I'd get em while ya can near you to be on the safe side
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jorgensend23 on Feb 06, 2015, 11:51 AM
In the past week, we have taken home over 600 yellows.  Cleaned about 550 of them and they were all the 8-10" range.  You just have to know where to go to get the bigger ones.....   ;D  Had a nice bonus 18" male walleye we got as well.
[/quote.......... Where you fishing?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Feb 06, 2015, 10:18 PM
I'd sell your spot out for $500 cash - should win the tournament!  You honestly expect that he'd tell you where he did that kind of damage?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: buttontate on Feb 07, 2015, 04:39 PM
couple of us caught about a dozen dinks. Seem like they would follow the bait up but not want to bite. Tried different colors, sizes, depth, and bait but no dice. Hopefully something turns around. Tomorrow should be interesting.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crappyfishrman on Feb 07, 2015, 08:50 PM
Same, tried everywhere. Fish came up, looked, and straight down again. Fought 5-4" yellow perch. Talked to some who found yellow bass, but had to move a ton to find them. It's gonna be a tough day i feel
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Feb 07, 2015, 09:35 PM
Think we can all agreen today was slow. 4 of my friends said they didn't even catch a yellow and I only caught maybe 6. Drilled 40-50 holes, didn't mark much either. Let's hope they turn on tommorow, Good Luck everybody!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Joboo2334 on Feb 08, 2015, 07:33 AM
X2 I'm curious myself. I do real good on them in the spring.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Feb 08, 2015, 05:05 PM
Well how'd everybody do!?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bullhead King on Feb 08, 2015, 06:21 PM
We ended up in 72nd place with 28 fish weighing 7.21lbs.

There were 5429 total fish weighed in according to the official results.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: buttontate on Feb 08, 2015, 06:45 PM
We placed 24th with 10.25 lbs.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: dekalbnick on Feb 08, 2015, 08:58 PM
We got 2nd with 13.85. Caught close to 200 yellows today. Was a good and fun day. Until right at the end never had people closer than 200-300 yards. Nice day and fun event.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crappyfishrman on Feb 08, 2015, 09:16 PM
Came in 92 place. Caught 31 fish. People were all around us. Couldn't hardly breathe they were so close. Had 2 guys 20 yards from us and they said they caught upwards of 150. Unreal what a different jig and 20 yards can produce. Guys on the other side of us didn't catch anything. Overall very happy. My brother caught fish so he will be going back again next year haha!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Feb 09, 2015, 08:20 AM
We finished 25th with 10.2 pounds. Man it was packed though, was really hard trying to avoid the crowd at Baptist but we managed our 50. Ran our gas auger out of gas and the drill out of both batteries. Good event and looking forward to next year's...Especially sense I'll have my new thermal we got for 25th place ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jiggerjohn on Feb 09, 2015, 08:50 AM
me and my son ended up 49Th.  50 fish weighed 9.20. caught at least 150 just no size.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Iowan on Feb 09, 2015, 09:58 AM
Wife and I finished 33 with 50 fish.  By the end of the day she understood the value of hole hopping and held her own on the ice the entire day.  Looking forward to next year. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Feb 09, 2015, 04:17 PM
20 feet (not yards) made more than all of the difference.  The lure shape or color did not matter at all. If there was a fish in the hole that wouldn't bite it was a waste of time.  At second place we didn't have a fish in our bucket in the first hour.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crappyfishrman on Feb 09, 2015, 04:39 PM
Next year i will definetly be more mobile. We stuck around our holes for the last 1.5 to 2 hrs. Should have kept drilling and kept moving. I figure not bad for our first time targeting yellows and first one on the lake. We beat out over half the competition and my brother has only ice fished 3 times haha.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Feb 09, 2015, 05:32 PM
Thanks to everyone that fished our event!!!!!

Hope to make it better for 2016.

Thanks
Chris
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: trex59 on Feb 09, 2015, 05:45 PM
Congrats to all of you that caught fish to get into the top 100! Did most of you fish the big lake or little lake?   My son and I thought we had it figured out on the little lake as that is where we fished last year and didnt too bad for our first time on the lake and finished in the top 100.  We prefished on Friday afternoon on the big lake but it was tough going with the drifts out there so my son thought we would do ok in the little lake so that is where we prefished on Sat and we got into some decent 8-10 in fish. Not alot but we were prefishing and adding some spots to our list where we had caught yellows. Boy did that change on Sunday. We could not buy a bite and we moved alot! In shallow, out deep, 20 ft this way,20 ft the other to no avail. Tried all 5 spots that we had caught yellows before and nothing.  Lots of teams around us were experiencing the same thing. With nothing to check in for fish, we fished right up to the deadline thinking all we need is one, Tagged fish!!!  lol  Had lots of fun anyway. A well run event and next year, we will be learning the big lake!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Outdoor_Joe_26 on Feb 09, 2015, 07:07 PM
Similar for my dad and I trex...We did it last year and it was our first time on that lake and couldn't prefish, but missed $100 payout by ounces.  This time I wanted to do it right so I prefished Friday and drilled a ton of holes but only found perch. Saturday I battled auger problems but my wife and I found a few spots and felt pretty good by 3 on Saturday evening.  Sunday we raced to our spot on foot but couldn't beat the teams on quads. Set up and fished but we just weren't in the spot. Checked a few other spots, the places we found them last year and then hole hopped our way back to the ramp but only found one. My dad and I weighed in one fish and my wife and uncle got skunked, although my uncle did land a nice crappie which was his first fish through the ice.

All in all the guys that run it do everything but catch the fish for us.  The bash, the prizes and experience make it the best ran tournament I've been to, even though clear lake seems to kick my butt! 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: waterfowlhunter on Feb 09, 2015, 10:58 PM
I was unable to pre-fish the lake and haven't fished it since last years tourney so we went in completely blind. We probably moved 10 times to new areas of both the big lake and little lake. It wasn't until around 12:10 when i caught the first yellow and i was really excited to be on the board  ;D My partner and I then fished the same hole and caught our 50 within the next half hour giving us just enough time to get picked up and back to the weigh in. We ended up placing 70th so overall a pretty good day
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IowaHardWater on Feb 10, 2015, 11:26 AM
Finished up 133rd, if I remember right, weighing in 15 fish.  We had 2 fish in our bucket the first three hours, and we decided to make our way back to the boat ramp and start fishing closer to the ramp, instead of having a heck of a walk to end the day.  We found fish right away, added 13 to our bucket in probably 20-25 minutes, and then got in line to weigh in.

Pre-fishing went well, we caught the 9-10" fish, and decided we'd make that trek the morning of the tournament.  However, the walk was a 12 minute walk, pulling the ice house, just to catch dink walleye, perch, and two yellows.  Needless to say that I was a bit tired after pulling the ice house all the way out.

Regardless, it was fun, we'll be back next year, and hopefully with an ATV in tow.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: trex59 on Feb 10, 2015, 12:53 PM
Hey Iowahardwater, did you make the trek to the big lake or little?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IowaHardWater on Feb 11, 2015, 10:16 AM
We stayed on little lake, but we went a long, long ways west.  I'm sure people had 10 fish in the bucket before we got to our spot, and it wasn't worth it!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: trex59 on Feb 11, 2015, 04:40 PM
Yes I think saw you out there and wondered if there was any action out there!  We were over that way but by the other ramp.  The navionics app on my phone showed a fish attracter just off the ramp and we were hopping all over to find a bite on the little lake, but wanting to stay away from the crowds! Just couldnt find it! 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: kbrandel4314 on Feb 12, 2015, 03:48 AM
Im looking to fish Clear Lake this weekend (2-14).  Any suggestions on jigs, bait, location???  Driving 3 hours from Northwest Illinois to visit family.  Thanks for any advise!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IowaHardWater on Feb 12, 2015, 10:26 AM
Yes I think saw you out there and wondered if there was any action out there!  We were over that way but by the other ramp.  The navionics app on my phone showed a fish attracter just off the ramp and we were hopping all over to find a bite on the little lake, but wanting to stay away from the crowds! Just couldnt find it!

Yeah, they were there the day before, just not on Sunday.  Heck of a walk, I was awfully tired.  That darn ice house doesn't pull the greatest on the snow!  Good thing that plowed road went pretty much to our spot, which made it a bit easier.  Marked a lot of fish, caught some perch and really small walleye, and two yellows out of that spot before we gave up on it, a bit too late, but we still weighed a few fish.  We'll be back next year! 

We were going to borrow a buddies four wheeler, but he's a farmer and it isn't registered.  I feared the DNR would be doing the check in, so we didn't bring it.  Turns out maybe we should have...
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: trex59 on Feb 12, 2015, 06:19 PM
I keep asking myself what makes fish disappear like that? I think maybe that front that moved through that gave us the need for ice creepers early morning in the parking lot may have caused them to go somewhere where we weren't!!  We still had a good father/son outing and are looking forward to doing it again with a different strategy!  IowaHardwater, build yourself a smitty sled and a walk like that will be a breeze. I built two, one for the shack we had and one for my one man. I wish I would have done it years ago, Thanks smitty!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IowaHardWater on Feb 13, 2015, 11:17 AM
Yeah, a smitty sled would be awesome to put under the house, it sure would make the pulls easier.  I'm sure that little front that pushed through had something to do with the fish not being where they were on Saturday, which was 12-13' of water.  However, on our walk back, when we found them, I was fishing in 6', with a vertical spoon jig, and a treble hook, and the fish were slamming it.

I'd drop down, not even get half way, and up they'd come!  Too bad there wasn't size to them, and too bad we didn't move there an hour earlier!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ShortStix on Feb 14, 2015, 08:32 AM
Is whitebreast safe for a Polaris ranger?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Oldbear on Feb 14, 2015, 05:52 PM
Might try that under Red Rock Ice Report.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Feb 17, 2015, 04:59 PM
Anyone else heard anything about them hitting a sewer pipe while working on the Ventura grade? Heard they hit a sewer pipe and it spilled a bunch of gunk into the lake and what's why the lake has an awful odor. We fished next to the channel a few weeks ago and brown gunk was flowing up the hole and the water absolutely reeked..And the fish I've been cleaning have a pungent smell...Ask some locals and hears about the pipe
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Feb 17, 2015, 05:03 PM
Anyone else heard anything about them hitting a sewer pipe while working on the Ventura grade? Heard they hit a sewer pipe and it spilled a bunch of gunk into the lake and what's why the lake has an awful odor. We fished next to the channel a few weeks ago and brown gunk was flowing up the hole and the water absolutely reeked..And the fish I've been cleaning have a pungent smell...Ask some locals and hears about the pipe

Oh boy, I hope not. I've heard people complain about the taste of the fish.

I know when I went last year, I was surprised at the poor quality of the water. Very dirty & green. But, there was a large ice cap for a very long time last year with low oxygen levels. After punching a hole, I was just surprised at the water when it came up.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Feb 17, 2015, 05:22 PM
Not sure how credible the pipeline deal is. Just know the fish flavor is definitely "Different" and the lakes water has a real bad smell..At least it did when the auger splashed water in my coat and I've seen nasty gunk in the channel...Sounded like a logical explanation just trying to see if it's verified
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: JiggingIowa on Feb 17, 2015, 10:18 PM
Unfortunately I believe it's true, I'm not sure it's a sewer pipe that was hit, but the water has been affected by something. I'm probably going to contact the DNR and get something more officaial, but I'm not keeping fish out of the little lake until it's taken care of.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: wittyman on Feb 17, 2015, 10:30 PM
Gives new meaning to catching a crappie!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Joboo2334 on Feb 18, 2015, 06:28 AM
Lmao!!! Think I'm gonna stick to my farm ponds.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Dukkilr on Feb 18, 2015, 06:48 AM
Unfortunately it's true.  A construction crew building a bike trail hit a sewer line under the lake last summer by the grade while driving in pilings it was broke for quite a while.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Feb 18, 2015, 03:54 PM
Caddy Shack and Babe Ruth bar.

 Be careful what might float by your hole. Just sayin'.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: KrappieSlayer on Feb 21, 2015, 04:48 PM
http://www.kwwl.com/story/28167436/2015/02/21/two-charged-with-cheating-at-iowa-fishing-tourney

what losers.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: KrappieSlayer on Feb 21, 2015, 04:50 PM
We got 2nd with 13.85. Caught close to 200 yellows today. Was a good and fun day. Until right at the end never had people closer than 200-300 yards. Nice day and fun event.

does this mean you are now #1????
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Feb 21, 2015, 07:00 PM
I'd assume so.  I sure hope they don't stop doing this tournament because of this.  It sucks more for the tournament hosts trying to run an honest quality tournament than anyone.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: andypromx on Feb 21, 2015, 07:08 PM
They should be banned for life from all fishing tournaments!!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ranger185 on Feb 21, 2015, 07:35 PM
I feel bad for Kevin Paul. You can tell he puts his heart and soul into this. At the same time.....what do you expect? Think about it. Guys could fish all week, get a net under the ice that was tied down by a tent spike driven into the ice. Keep putting decent fish into it. It refreezes every day. Use your GPS to mark the spot and there you go. All this is hidden by pulling your portable lid over so nobody can see what you are doing. Doesn't take a great deal of imagination. How can you really expect to run a tournament like this without some scumbags figuring it out.
Regarding tournaments, I simply do not understand the need to feel that you have to spend the money to enter, travel, lodge, and so on. To each their own I guess.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Feb 21, 2015, 07:52 PM
I expect that a lesson will be taught here harsh enough that people won't consider it again.  I'm very sure you aren't alone in the way you think of a tournaments, but there are a lot of us out there that love it.  By the number of people who not only entered the tournament, but got turned away after the field was closed I can say that many of us love it.  If there were more tournaments like this I'd fish as many as my wife would let me!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Feb 21, 2015, 07:54 PM
Maybe put differently you don't have to sign up, you want to
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Iowan on Feb 23, 2015, 06:15 PM
There were a few flaws in the interview.  He states the fish stopped biting when the sun came up.  The tourney didn't start until after the sun was up.  Then the other one states it took them a half hour to find fish. 

Not sure what the solution would be to this or what the larger tournaments do other than a ploy test and don't think the tournament has reached that size yet.  Maybe interview the winners separately and ask a few "investigative" questions.  Other than doing my part in being honest, not much I can do about others.  I am sure no matter what if there is a will there is a way.  As sad as this story is I am still looking forward to next year.  I will have a good time doing what I love regardless of guys like this that are willing to sacrifice their integrity for a little recognition and prizes. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Feb 23, 2015, 09:08 PM
Ok lets let this issue die out of this thread.  Anyone been out on the lake???  Thinking about trying it tomorrow if the bite is slow on Crystal.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crappyfishrman on Feb 23, 2015, 09:34 PM
He was referring to the sun coming out. It was pretty cloudy all morning then the sun came out and the fish slowed way down. But if they cheated that sucks. Hope they get all that figured out soon.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: FISH-MITS on Feb 26, 2015, 07:12 PM
The YBB is doing a ton for this lake. Crappie, Walleye & Musky are starting to do well. Nothing better then making competition out of yanking yellows out of the lake. Buddy & I made top 30 last year & top 10 this year. For us as much as anything it's the tourney strategy & networking with good company which does it for us. Last thing this tournament needs is a couple of individuals who get arrested and come across as being dishonest in an interview when their not able to subconsciously answer questions like how deep they fished or by making statements that the fish we're stacked top to bottom while fishing 9'. Using this thread to bring awareness is positive...risk cheating, get caught & you'll become famous for all the wrong reasons. We all have some stock in upholding the reputation of what it means to be "REAL" Iowa Sportsman.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Feb 26, 2015, 08:10 PM
Anybody been fishing the lake lately???  All I hear are people bashing the people who cheated.  As if no one on here has ever done anything wrong from speeding to not wearing a seatbelt or an OWI.  Lets get back to fish reports as that is what this is all about. 


Last report I got was the bite had slowed from a few weeks ago. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Feb 26, 2015, 08:25 PM
So the guys that won it come across as dishonest for not wanting to share information about the depth they caught their fish in?  Also for saying fish were stacked top to bottom in 9 feet of water?  I'm not trying to defend them, but that's about the dumbest thing I've heard.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: FISH-MITS on Feb 26, 2015, 09:33 PM
Just saying if your interviewed and are asked how deep you're fishing and you make a legitimate attempt to answer but sound like stu-der-ing sssstanlyy there's probably something up. Either you know how deep you fished or not - end of story. If you don't want to tell folks how deep your fishing then at least answer, "I'm only here so I dont get fined" ;). Lets be honest the top 10 teams we're basically fishing the same depth so its not as if its a secret for Davey Jones Locker. On top of it and just saying guess I cant remember ever catching a ton of chunky yellow bass suspended 7' off the bottom mid February.   
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Feb 27, 2015, 07:37 AM
Every year I've fished Clear Lake and the tournament I've had times where the fish were extended above my 6' bottom zoom. Just saying. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: FISH-MITS on Feb 27, 2015, 09:18 AM
Might want to leave that zoom off then  ::)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CL_UCS on Feb 28, 2015, 11:39 AM
Unfortunately it's true.  A construction crew building a bike trail hit a sewer line under the lake last summer by the grade while driving in pilings it was broke for quite a while.

Unfortunate but that was 12 years ago. http://www.radioiowa.com/2003/07/16/line-break-spills-sewage-into-clear-lake/
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: CL_UCS on Feb 28, 2015, 11:45 AM
Out fishing east side of the island today. Only one other person out here. Decided to try a new location. ~7ft
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Dukkilr on Feb 28, 2015, 06:41 PM
they kept it pretty quite
http://www.clreporter.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2228:hauling-continues-247-while-temporary-sewer-line-is-installed-at-ventura-grade&Itemid=81
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Mar 10, 2015, 05:40 PM
Still any safe ice?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Corkycal on Mar 11, 2015, 06:13 PM
I was wondering the same thing about Clear Lake. I saw two people out on the ice at Ada Hayden this afternoon. But the conditions are deteriorating quickly. Wouldn't mind heading North if there are any safe areas on Clear Lake. Thanks!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SouthBear on Mar 11, 2015, 08:27 PM
I was on little lake today. I did see 5-6 others out on little lake. Tiny bit of water at the shore, ice was soft but not too slushy out further. I would avoid big lake quite a bit has opened up. I walked out with spud bar, Ice was soft, the ice cubed up when slamming the spud bar. Safe to walk on today I would think 2 more days before it gets completely trashed. Did catch some nice bluegills.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Corkycal on Mar 11, 2015, 08:55 PM
Thanks for the info SouthBear!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Dec 24, 2015, 02:12 PM
Plan on hitting the Little Lake the 27th(Sunday)
Anyone else going? Always bring a friend early ice and bring picks and a spud bar!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tracksnorth on Dec 25, 2015, 01:34 PM
I am thinking about heading there tomorrow actually. Anyone have a recent report on thickness?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bassfishineric12 on Dec 25, 2015, 03:27 PM
I just drove by didn't see anybody out there yet
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Dec 26, 2015, 01:06 PM
Any word on the ice?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bigwally on Dec 27, 2015, 05:14 PM
I hear people fished Clear Lake today. Any truth to this?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crouch2 on Dec 27, 2015, 07:14 PM
I was there today fished Macintosh had 2.5 3 inches of ice and also fished off of farmers beach and had a solid 3.5 inches there
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fish76 on Dec 27, 2015, 07:29 PM
Were any fish being caught?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bigwally on Dec 27, 2015, 08:15 PM
Awesome. Thanks for the update.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: EricB86 on Dec 27, 2015, 09:05 PM
I am planning on driving up there next weekend! Hope this snow blows right off the ice! Can you keep me posted?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tracksnorth on Dec 27, 2015, 09:08 PM
Did well on Saturday with yellows and one walleye off of farmers. Fished Lynn lorentzen and the channel off of Macintosh today and got into some dink perch and walleye but some nice crappie and a decent northern.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: EricB86 on Dec 28, 2015, 03:42 PM
I was hoping the wind would keep this snow off the ice on little clear!  I was planning on fishing McIntosh Wednesday or Saturday! But this snow and sleet combination is some heavy stuff! Hope the wind up there is stronger than it is here!!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tracksnorth on Dec 28, 2015, 04:15 PM
Let's hope so,looking rough though.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bigwally on Dec 29, 2015, 02:14 PM
Anyone been out to check if the snow effected the ice?  I'm stuck at work.  :-[
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: EricB86 on Dec 29, 2015, 02:28 PM
I was about to give the crazy minnow a call and see what he says. I will let you know! I'm hoping the lake looks better than my driveway did!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bigwally on Dec 29, 2015, 02:52 PM
I was about to give the crazy minnow a call and see what he says. I will let you know! I'm hoping the lake looks better than my driveway did!

I would appreciate that.  I'm planning to fish Friday if the ice is good.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: EricB86 on Dec 29, 2015, 03:37 PM
Talked to the owner of crazy minnow, he said he posted something on Facebook. Fire department said it's unsafe at this time. The old ice and new ice/ snow has become "honeycombed". 3-4". Kevan Paul supposedly fished it today, with a spud bar treading carefully!!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MidnightRambler on Dec 29, 2015, 08:12 PM
Someone on FB asked the question I had about how much of the snow was blown off the ice by the wind. According to the Crazy Minnow there are some windswept areas on the lake. Hopefully the snow that is on the ice will not screw things up too much.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: EricB86 on Dec 30, 2015, 02:19 PM
I got four days off, and crappies on my mind! Tie em tight, light em bright, catch em right!!!
Title: Clear lake ice info ?
Post by: Wavfire06 on Dec 30, 2015, 09:29 PM
Wondering if anyone is going out on Thursday and can let me know what the conditions are I am looking at going this weekend
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: thordoggydog on Dec 30, 2015, 10:41 PM
I was on it today. Ice was spotty 2.5 in under drifts to 5 in clear spots. Horrible slush around areas we drilled holes. Could barely pull my tent back because ice chunks froze to bottom of it. Fish were biting though. Be very careful!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tracksnorth on Dec 30, 2015, 11:09 PM
Heading there in the morning. I'll come back with a report, fished it last weekend and the minimum I measured was 3 inches
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: EricB86 on Dec 31, 2015, 12:27 AM
That would would be appreciated! I'm going Saturday, I will do the same!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fish76 on Dec 31, 2015, 06:58 AM
Planning on a trip Saturday morning. suggestion on starting point. Small lake or Farmers? Look forward to getting on the ice.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: D0wnbyth3r1v3r on Dec 31, 2015, 07:18 AM
Heading there in the morning. I'll come back with a report, fished it last weekend and the minimum I measured was 3 inches

Please let us know! I got the itch!
I was on it today. Ice was spotty 2.5 in under drifts to 5 in clear spots. Horrible slush around areas we drilled holes. Could barely pull my tent back because ice chunks froze to bottom of it. Fish were biting though. Be very careful!
Be safe out there! Are you talking about little lake?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: EricB86 on Jan 01, 2016, 09:27 PM
Well I won't be out there on a snow machine like Kevan Paul, but I will be on the ice catching fish in the morning! That guy is nuts!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Jan 02, 2016, 05:53 PM
Cleaned 200+ yellows past three days out of little lake. 60 Thursday, 120 Friday and went out for an hour and a half today and came back with 50. Good year class! Going early tomorrow in search of crappie if anyone wants to meet up. Look for the Blue Nills auger with a Clan Plate and Drill on it! I'll be in a Blue Clam ice suit. Fishing 8-12 fow. Lots of small eyes and two master angler white bass as well
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: EricB86 on Jan 02, 2016, 07:58 PM
Gotta go deeper for crappies! Just got back! We caught about 60-70 crappies, kept 44 that were 9-13". A dozen perch we threw back, 4-6". And 8 walleyes we through back 6-11". Ice is sketchy in spots! Spud bar highly recommended people! Be safe!!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: kramz1992 on Jan 02, 2016, 09:07 PM
I must be doing something wrong.  I just got back from there.  Fished quite a few different spots on the little lake. Ended up catching 3 yellows couple small perch and a 10" walleye.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Wald0 on Jan 02, 2016, 09:38 PM
planning on driving up tomorrow morning and fishing the day. My inlaws have a house on the lake up there but I've never ice fished it, hopefully the bit is still going!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Jan 02, 2016, 10:54 PM
If anyone finds a red Katoohla spike/cleat let me know! I lost one of mine on Thursday. I took them off on the lake and could've sworn I saw them in the Mcintosh parking lot when I loaded the sled. Either one fell out of my sled on the little lake or it fell out of the sled when I loaded it in the truck
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: EricB86 on Jan 02, 2016, 11:54 PM
We got there at 5:45 am and fished 5 pm. They came and went, but we just waited them out! There were some slow moments, but we moved only once!  My buddy got there at 3 am and had 15 by the time we got there! We could of limited out 3 hrs sooner, but we were letting alot go that most would of kept!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Wald0 on Jan 03, 2016, 11:40 AM
Out now....skunked so far
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Jan 03, 2016, 02:19 PM
Just got back...Crappie bite was good until about 8 am. Moved onto yellows and did good. 40-50 yellows in an hours fishing...went back and tried crappie and didn't as much as mark a fish
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: EricB86 on Jan 03, 2016, 02:43 PM
Glad you found them Bockster! There is some nice crappies to be caught! Is the ice still creepy like it was yesterday?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crouch2 on Jan 03, 2016, 06:24 PM
I fish 10 ft  from 830 till 1130 and cleaned 42 yellows today was off Macintosh
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: potatoe on Jan 04, 2016, 05:26 PM
New guy learning the sport with my son, we fished Clear Lake last weekend also. Had good luck Saturday for us and Sunday was slow. Is there a secret set-up for the yellows I kept hearing people talking about catching 40 - 50 but we only caught a few. Caught a couple nice crappie on Saturday.

Thanks for any info
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: D0wnbyth3r1v3r on Jan 04, 2016, 05:39 PM
I always had good luck using a piece of there own meat as bait personally.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: potatoe on Jan 04, 2016, 07:06 PM
That would be cool and thanks for offer but not sure what are plans are yet, we live north side of Ankeny and takes us 1 1/2 hrs drive time. Still learning how to move around also in our Yukon we just got last weekend. It is not very quick to move around with wind. We went over to Macintosh area Sunday when we spotted all the huts in the area. I think we were late getting there which was around 11.

We fished just off the boat ramp in Ventura not sure of name early Sunday am.

This was our first success at catching anything on clear lake so we had fun.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Jan 04, 2016, 08:57 PM
I fish Clear weekly and will usually be around if you decide to come up again sometime...I was out Friday and came back with 120 yellows in a couple hours along with a few Master Angler white bass I threw back
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Jan 04, 2016, 09:18 PM
If I'm not marking yellows on the flasher I won't even set anything up.  There are days when I won't jig a hole if I'm not marking any.  I'm never on a hole for a full minute if I haven't marked a fish.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jon1023 on Jan 05, 2016, 09:46 AM
bockster sent you a pm
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: McCormick1 on Jan 05, 2016, 11:26 AM
Brockster, I think I found you boot spike.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: EricB86 on Jan 05, 2016, 03:35 PM
Brockster, I think I found you boot spike.
You can send him a personal message! If you found it, that is pretty neat! Not to many people would make the extra effort! God bless!!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Kevin23 on Jan 05, 2016, 04:03 PM
He needs 5 replies to send a PM
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: hotrod on Jan 06, 2016, 11:44 AM
Anyone using the Farmers Beach access yet?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tracksnorth on Jan 06, 2016, 07:10 PM
Hotrod I used the farmers access the past two weekends. Wasn't near as busy as Macintosh or lorentzen but I punched a whole lot of holes and didn't do very well.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: hotrod on Jan 06, 2016, 08:59 PM
Thanks for info guys.  We're there atv's out of the Farmers area?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: potatoe on Jan 07, 2016, 04:31 PM
What is weather like in Clear Lake, we are getting rain today in central Iowa. Not looking good around here until the artic air shows up Sunday

I noticed two sheds on Farmer's Sunday, we drove there just to check it out for fist time. Not much parking at that site.

I only noticed one 4 x 4 unit driving on the ice, it was a Wilcraft that could float if it dropped in. pretty cool looking machine
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Wally Lindner on Jan 07, 2016, 08:14 PM
at 3:31PM,   the same as yours.   
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: justin1234 on Jan 09, 2016, 12:32 PM
hows the ice doing on clear lake?  might try to hit it up tomarrow
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: EricB86 on Jan 09, 2016, 04:25 PM
Just got back! Ice is in great shape! 6-8"+ on little lake! Big lake not so sure, haven't ventured over there yet! Bite was a little tougher than last weekend! Crappies were scattered! 5" perch, and 8-10" walleyes filled the slow crappie bite! Better than getting skunked!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: justin1234 on Jan 09, 2016, 04:51 PM
thank you sir. im going to hit it up tomarrow!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: EricB86 on Jan 09, 2016, 04:55 PM
No problem. Good luck! I heard yellows were doing pretty good today! We never went and tried em. We were going strictly for crappies! It wasn't even slushy, four wheelers cruising around all over the little lake!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: justin1234 on Jan 09, 2016, 05:06 PM
i think were going to leave the wheeler at home.   and im thinking were going to try the yellows.  we wont be up there before 9am and will leave by 4pm.    just have to get on the ice though!!   our liver spot we normally fish is still open water!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: potatoe on Jan 09, 2016, 06:11 PM
We only caught one crappie today, we are new to the sport and lake but everyone we have talked to is super helpful. We hit the yellows around 7:30 and had a blast.

Cold and windy today, staying home tomorrow
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Jan 09, 2016, 08:26 PM
https://www.facebook.com/156688974393652/photos/a.156912577704625.38506.156688974393652/1067532423309298/?type=3&comment_id=1067684576627416&notif_t=comment_mention
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: justin1234 on Jan 09, 2016, 08:41 PM
very nice! i cant wait!!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Jan 10, 2016, 03:18 PM
Did anyone do good today? I fished all over little lake and had a very poor time finding fish. Ended with 40 Medioce sized yellows...only 2 over 9" rest were 8ish and one decent crappie. Started ato Ventura and worked my way across the basin of Little into the dredge cuts then zigzaged to the 25 ft hole by the dome house...then fished all over McIntosh to the channel. All my fish were caugh from 9-10. Marked maybe 5 fish if that the rest for the day. Saw someone driving on the ice today and three permies are out
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: justin1234 on Jan 10, 2016, 04:17 PM
i caught 4 perch from 12:30 to 3pm.....  didnt move though.   just parked at about 19 feet in the basin.   my buddy kept saying that truck was going to go in....  fishing was slow in the deeper water,  at a bad time of the  day.   
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: EricB86 on Jan 10, 2016, 05:03 PM
I never would of tried driving a truck out there yet, that is a bit crazy! You're lucky to have made back!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: justin1234 on Jan 10, 2016, 05:18 PM
i wasnt out there in a truck, but someone was!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Jan 10, 2016, 06:00 PM
The truck that was driving today was a really old brown F150....I remember last year hearing about someone in a similar truck repeatedly driving across the channel. I never saw it happen but I'm wondering if it's the same person
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ncraun35 on Jan 10, 2016, 06:31 PM
Headed there early in the morning for an all day trip.  never been there before, and taking my brother who has never fished hard water before.  anyone have some starting points for us. Would like to catch a numbers but would like some crappies and eyes as well
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: potatoe on Jan 10, 2016, 06:41 PM
Lots of sheds just out from Macintosh boat ramp, just a beginner but every time we have fished on this lake there are tons of people in that area.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Kevin23 on Jan 10, 2016, 06:43 PM
Theres some good looking depth contours in that area. Never fished there, but looking at my map that is where i would start!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: justin1234 on Jan 10, 2016, 06:50 PM
I see in that above post I said "parked"  I should have said "set up our portable"   we fished out in the basin just out from the McIntosh boat ramp,  and fishing sucked.  We weren't out during a good bite time though.  Had some big marks come up and sniff,  but not bite.  And just got 4 perch.     Don't know for sure why so many huts were out there.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Wavfire06 on Jan 10, 2016, 08:35 PM
I was out early this morning and got 13 keepers in about 1 hour from 7:30 to 8:30 by 9:30 it was dead moved and couldn't get anything to bite
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: kramz1992 on Jan 10, 2016, 09:38 PM
The guy driving the truck drove back and forth pry 3-4 times.  And did some donuts in front of the boat ramp.  Gives some people a bad rap. But I'd say he might have deserved it.   I didn't do to bad for fishing. Came home with a bunch of yellows. Sure was cold out there the last 2 days.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: justin1234 on Jan 10, 2016, 10:37 PM
wasnt there a white chevy out on the ice too?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bassfishineric12 on Jan 12, 2016, 04:22 PM
I watched a gold grand am drive out
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ncraun35 on Jan 12, 2016, 11:55 PM
Anyone heading out tomorrow morning
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tracksnorth on Jan 13, 2016, 08:43 PM
Bockster I was the one talking about the old brown f-150 last year. Apparently he's still at it haha
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: pboer on Jan 14, 2016, 02:41 PM
Was out from 12-2 today, caught 35 or so. Great weather. 8" ice by Baptist camp.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Wally Lindner on Jan 14, 2016, 05:11 PM
 Fished from 8 to noon on the little lake.  Measured ice with a tape and there was 4 inches of white on top and 8 inches of perfection under that. 
Weather was great and the fishing even better. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: EricB86 on Jan 14, 2016, 05:29 PM
Fished from 8 to noon on the little lake.  Measured ice with a tape and there was 4 inches of white on top and 8 inches of perfection under that. 
Weather was great and the fishing even better.

Were the crappies aggressive today?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crappyfishrman on Jan 18, 2016, 08:01 AM
Hows the fishing for walleye on clear lake? Thinking about driving up this coming weekend. Would love to catch something other that blue gill all day!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Wally Lindner on Jan 18, 2016, 08:25 PM
  I have yet to find a walleye bite but again today the pan fishing was excellent.  Ice is 14" on the little lake.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MelroseHawkins on Jan 21, 2016, 03:44 PM
How is the water quality in the Little Lake? Wasn't it a year or two ago there was a rumor going around there was some kind of spill into the lake causing mucky and smelly water? It seems people were complaining about the taste of the fish as well. I know my small group went up there & the water was quite cloudy and we didn't have much luck which was really odd for us at Clear. We also went later in mid winter and there was quite an ice cap because that was the year had like 30 some days straight of the day starting out below 0. There was some oxygen problems with really low O2 levels so the fish were probably well off the bottom & not biting.
This along with the cloudy mucky water made it quite bad. I was just wondering about the water quality.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Wally Lindner on Jan 21, 2016, 05:33 PM
Lure disappears after two feet so clarity decent, water smells normal, and bite is great.  With 15.5 inches of ice and no snow to speak of there were plenty of fisherman out today. WT 32.   ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Kevin23 on Jan 21, 2016, 06:05 PM
Are you allowed to smell your own icehole or do you have to ask a buddy to do it?

Never heard of someone smelling the water, must be exclusive to clear.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: EricB86 on Jan 21, 2016, 06:32 PM
Lol. That's awesome!!! :o
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ranger185 on Jan 21, 2016, 07:47 PM
Saw report, and pics, of a huge Muskie coming out of Clear Lake today with pics at local bait shop. It is the guy's right to keep that fish but, really, is that what ice fishing in Iowa has come to? Kill a trophy fish like that? Because you got it through some 8" hole? And get your pic taken at bait shop? Crazy. Simply crazy what some guys are thinking.
In case you didn't know, Clear Lake is a limited resource lake. You can't go every day and keep your 20 8" crappies or 1 48" Muskie or 5 15" walleye. Yellows yes as they will survive the pressure from the hordes.
Give the resource a little thought. Those of us who fish our butts off to catch a fish like that during the open water, and let it go, would appreciate it. A lot












Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crappyfishrman on Jan 21, 2016, 08:26 PM
I agree. Lots of comments were deleted from that photo including mine saying that it should have been put back. Fish like that probably take a decade to get that big!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Kevin23 on Jan 21, 2016, 08:33 PM
I wont mention his name because it was his right to keep it, but he did say "there are too many in the lake". He isnt going to be making many friends now that people know his name. He will be "that guy who kept the musky" to all of the locals.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Jan 21, 2016, 09:04 PM
I won't put his name either but I checked his profile and saw he cleans and eats muskie. Shame. Clear Lake has a higher muskie per acre then any lake in the US...From what I've been told by numerous people anyhow. The guy that kept the one today claimed it was foul hooked...I don't want to start any arguments or bash..But how do you foul hook through the ice? The largest bait anyone would use is some big lip less crank baits...No way would any little ice fishing jig cause a 50" muskie to bleed out. But anyways, I guess it is his right and there's nothing we can do about it. No sense getting worked up anymore about it. Fished little lake yesterday and ended up with 40 yellows. Fishing again this weekend for yellows and crappies. Anyone catching crappie on the south dredge cuts? I always fish the one in front of the dome house and looking to try the ones on the south side this weekend if anyone has a pointer or two? Not asking for your secret spot...just a general point in the right direction. Thanks and Happy fishing!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Wally Lindner on Jan 22, 2016, 09:20 AM
Are you allowed to smell your own icehole or do you have to ask a buddy to do it?

Never heard of someone smelling the water, must be exclusive to clear.
I remember when I had my first beer
If you fished this lake last year through the ice or open water (spring) there was a undoubtable smell of sewer gas in the air
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: andypromx on Jan 22, 2016, 09:49 AM
During the YBB last year the water smelled "musty", and the yellows I cleaned tasted just like the water smelled.  I want to go back, but I'm afraid that the fish will taste bad again.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Jan 22, 2016, 10:06 AM
I just ate some yellows last night and they taste find. I experienced the same thing last year with the musty smell and muddy fish flavor. The water cleared up after ice out and I haven't noticed any muddy flavor since.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ranger185 on Jan 23, 2016, 08:32 PM
Got a message on Facebook that the Musky was "hooked in the gills and bleeding badly so he decided to keep it". Well, that means he isn't fishing 2lb line for yellows. Is it live bait rigs with Dacron? Is it tip ups? If so, that isn't going to end well for the fish. Sad that this guy has come to that. No northern pike in Clear Lake.
He can keep and clean all he wants but the possession limit is exactly one. One. Might take awhile to eat a 48" fish. How many are in the freezer? Hmmmm
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: EricB86 on Jan 23, 2016, 08:47 PM
I love haters! Why don't you burn the guy at the stake! Clear has plenty of muskies, it will be fine that he eats one! Or two. Or three. How are you speculating what gear was used? And calling it sad the guy has come to that... If your worried about endangering muskies your wasting your time! Them things have more food and chances to grow in that lake than darn near any other place in the us!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: DougU on Jan 23, 2016, 08:56 PM
I love haters! Why don't you burn the guy at the stake! Clear has plenty of muskies, it will be fine that he eats one! Or two. Or three. How are you speculating what gear was used? And calling it sad the guy has come to that... If your worried about endangering muskies your wasting your time! Them things have more food and chances to grow in that lake than darn near any other place in the us!

Gotta go with this. Guy catches a fish legally and keeps it...........end of story.  :P

By that logic, the guy who shoots the 140+ whitetail should be burnt at the stake as well......how about the guy who catches 8"+ inch bluegill, or the trapper who gets a big bobcat? Seriously?  ::)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: EricB86 on Jan 23, 2016, 09:28 PM
It's just like the walleye I caught outta the cedar this fall! People said I should got replica done... Let it go. So it can reproduce! I'm getting a skin mount! Who cares, a fish that size doesn't have too many viable eggs left anyways! It's the slot size you have to let go! That's the stock! That's why they have length limits people!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bull_Gill_Mike on Jan 23, 2016, 09:43 PM
It's just like the walleye I caught outta the cedar this fall! People said I should got replica done... Let it go. So it can reproduce! I'm getting a skin mount! Who cares, a fish that size doesn't have too many viable eggs left anyways! It's the slot size you have to let go! That's the stock! That's why they have length limits people!
well said you wouldn't want your kid to have a chance at that fish would you.... fillet em all!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: EricB86 on Jan 23, 2016, 10:44 PM
I'm catch and release all year round! I don't eat fish! But I caught a 10.5lb walleye and I thought to get it mounted. I have four children, and I think about what their fishery will be like quite often! It's not the people like me you have to worry about! It's the scum with no license that catch double limits four days a week. Don't bring my children into this!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: EricB86 on Jan 23, 2016, 10:50 PM
If that guy wants to eat that sour *** musky that's his rights! He pays his dues! Better than some illegal eating it!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: notime on Jan 24, 2016, 03:48 AM
 :thumbsup: :clap: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bull_Gill_Mike on Jan 24, 2016, 05:04 AM
If that guy wants to eat that sour *** musky that's his rights! He pays his dues! Better than some illegal eating it!
Yes it is..... I can pull 25 crappie out 7 days a week too, does that make it right?  People who think them musky are some how affecting the crappie/walleye population in that lake are about as smart as the fish they're pulling through that hole. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Jan 24, 2016, 07:41 AM
I think we can all agree it would've been nicer to see the fish released but it's not our fish and we weren't in the situation. Keeping one muskie isn't going to kill the fishery and there's still plenty of them in there! Back to fishing...cleaned 100 yellows and some crappies yesterday. Is anyone on a night crappie bite?? Not asking for spots just asking if anyone's catching them at night. I've done good really early morning for them...tried night fishing twice and have been skunked both times....And the lake is packed! I bet Baptist Camp had more people on it yesterday than little lake usually has ! Seeing lots of big walleyes being caught!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Kevin23 on Jan 24, 2016, 07:45 AM
Got a message on Facebook that the Musky was "hooked in the gills and bleeding badly so he decided to keep it". Well, that means he isn't fishing 2lb line for yellows. Is it live bait rigs with Dacron? Is it tip ups? If so, that isn't going to end well for the fish. Sad that this guy has come to that. No northern pike in Clear Lake.
He can keep and clean all he wants but the possession limit is exactly one. One. Might take awhile to eat a 48" fish. How many are in the freezer? Hmmmm

The stocking info and netting results say there are pike in clear...
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tracksnorth on Jan 24, 2016, 08:17 PM
There are pike in clear lake. Was fishing with a buddy last month and caught one.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: dcmod25 on Jan 25, 2016, 08:44 AM
what do you think would happen to fishing in clear lake for future generations if every single musky was released back after it was caught? think in time it would be over populated with them and every other game fish in that lake would suffer! then you could all complain about the rest of the fishing being so bad! his fish! caught legally! over the legal limit! he can do what he likes with it. who care if he is only aloud one in the feezer. he may have that eaten in a week or less and then is legal to keep another. i think alot of people complaining about it not being released are jelous they have not caught one this size. its his right to keep just as it is your right to release. great fish and be proud of it! whether you keep it or relese it thats up to the fisherman that catches it, not up to anyone else. so just congradulate him on a great catch!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: squ1rr31_ on Jan 25, 2016, 09:00 AM
Before this gets out of hand I'm going to squash this, do most of us wish that he'd released it yes. It's definitely his to do what he wants with it since it is his legal right to take one over the minimum limit and it was in season. As far as muskies being overpopulated, they do not breed as often as other fish, especially yellow bass or panfish which will spawn multiple times in a year. We're going to get this topic back on track now and I will be removing any further argumentative posts about the guy who kept the musky. Tight lines all.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Mr.Seaguar on Jan 25, 2016, 11:14 AM
Do Clear lake yellow bass bite all day long? Cause Okoboji yellow bass are basically done at 10am. I imagine you can scrape a few after that. But once they slow down I head for easier pickins. I am not a yellow bass snob.

Personally, I don't care if people keep a fish or eat it. Its a fish. The state will stock another
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Jan 25, 2016, 05:40 PM
They bite all day! I cleaned 200 of them yesterday I caught during the afternoon!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: hemann on Jan 25, 2016, 07:42 PM
They bite all day! I cleaned 200 of them yesterday I caught during the afternoon!

What kind of size?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ranger185 on Jan 25, 2016, 07:49 PM
The stocking info and netting results say there are pike in clear...
Please post said stocking and netting info/results so we all can see
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Huntindave on Jan 25, 2016, 07:59 PM
The stocking info and netting results say there are pike in clear...
Please post said stocking and netting info/results so we all can see

http://limnoweb.eeob.iastate.edu/fishpub/length.aspx?lakeCode=CLE17 (http://limnoweb.eeob.iastate.edu/fishpub/length.aspx?lakeCode=CLE17)

According to the DNR,,,,, NO Northerns have shown up in their nets or electro shocking.  Hummmm, must not be very many of them in Clear Lake.  Maybe Kevin knows something we don't.  Come on Kevin, spill the beans.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Mr.Seaguar on Jan 25, 2016, 09:26 PM
They bite all day! I cleaned 200 of them yesterday I caught during the afternoon!

Wonder what the difference is. I can't imagine cleaning 200 fish. I've been mad at myself but never that mad
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: timmons22 on Jan 26, 2016, 04:45 AM
I caught some northern last year at Clear Lake, I'm a long ways from a genius but I do know how to read.. according to the lake details in the fish stocking section they have stocked quite a few northerns in there dating back to 2009... just saying.. but I dont do the netting or shocking

http://www.iowadnr.gov/idnr/Fishing/Where-to-Fish/Lakes-Ponds-Reservoirs/LakeDetails/lakeCode/CLE17
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Huntindave on Jan 26, 2016, 04:57 AM
How many is "some"?  What size were they?  Just wondering, seems odd when none of any size are showing up in the DNR netting and shocking.  I'm not doubting you caught a Northern, just curious how many and size. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: timmons22 on Jan 26, 2016, 06:10 AM
I can remember three for sure...ranging from 22"-30"
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: squ1rr31_ on Jan 26, 2016, 09:55 AM
Enough guys, handle your business in private. Not in the public forum, anymore argumentative posts will bring moderation. Last warning.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crippler on Jan 26, 2016, 10:32 AM
Just getting around to posting.  We did very well both days this weekend.  Sorted a lot on yellows and kept 20 nice ones each day.  That's all I care to clean and I don't freeze them.  Caught crappies and walleyes too, but threw them back.  A few small perch went back.  One dink silver stayed on the ice.  The talk of Northerns and Musky is interesting.  I got tore off one each night about an hr before dark by something with lots of teeth.  All in all, great fishing and great eating this week.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Mr.Seaguar on Jan 26, 2016, 10:55 AM
Enough guys, handle your business in private. Not in the public forum, anymore argumentative posts will bring moderation. Last warning.

Boy you  Clear Lake guys are a grumpy bunch
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: whfishman on Jan 26, 2016, 12:33 PM
I was up last Saturday and did OK.  Caught crappie, walleye and yellows.  Walleye were all small as were most yellows.  Crappie were nice but only got about 8 that were 10" or bigger.  Fun none the less.  Thought it was strange that we caught more crappie in 12' of water than deeper.  And at sun down they completely shut off.  Is there much of a night bite on Clear for crappie or walleye?  We were in 12' of water at dark, should we have been deeper?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crippler on Jan 26, 2016, 01:09 PM
I generally fish deeper water for crappies, but catch them shallow too. I think you would catch more crappies, less yellows in 18' versus 10', but that's kind of a generalization.  As far as night goes, I catch far fewer crappies at night.  Walleyes do bite at night, but I'm typically fishing small jigs and spikes/powerbait.  I suppose bigger baits would produce more walleyes at night.  Either way, I think we are due for some late winter slowdown anyway.  I had a lot of non biters this weekend versus earlier in the year.
 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: dcmod25 on Jan 26, 2016, 01:10 PM
the crappie seem to run the shallower flats during the day and head back deep during early morning and later in the day. just what ive foound from the few times i have been there this year
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: D0wnbyth3r1v3r on Jan 29, 2016, 05:49 PM
Planning on heading up there tommorow morning. Anyone else going? What's the word on the bite?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Huntindave on Jan 29, 2016, 06:58 PM
I was there today, slow bite and windy on the topside.  Two cars in the ditch on the way home and I got sideways once pulling my enclosed trailer.  I plan to hit it again tomorrow.

I kept 7 yellows that I caught in 8 fow.  Dropped the camera down several holes and only saw fish once.  Didn't catch any out of that hole either, go figure.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: D0wnbyth3r1v3r on Jan 29, 2016, 07:29 PM
You on little or big lake? Are the roads bad or something? Dot doesn't show anything?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: EricB86 on Jan 29, 2016, 07:53 PM
The stretch from Charles City to Mason City is always slick, I slide everyone I go thru there!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Jan 29, 2016, 08:26 PM
Saw the car with the trailer.  We did well today.  wigglers and tungsten.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: fishing nut on Jan 29, 2016, 10:37 PM
Have not been to the lake this year. Is anyone venturing out on the main lake or are they all concentrated on the little lake. I know they go to farmers beach, but what about the main lake rock piles, billies, the island, dodges etc. I fished these areas many years ago and had success. Not looking for your secret spots just what are your thoughts on this.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: cyclone on Jan 30, 2016, 12:22 PM
Don't waste your time on the main lake structure middle of the day.  The dredging has completely changed the winter dynamic on Clear and the main lake is slow this time of year.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Jan 30, 2016, 12:37 PM
I'm not very smart about the history of the lake, but it seems to me as though you are fishing two completely different (from a structure standpoint),  but connected lakes that have to be fished completely different from each other.  Sure the fish can travel from one lake to the other, but big lake you are fishing a bowl that only has a shallow basin.  On little lake you are fishing underwater points and breaks. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: D0wnbyth3r1v3r on Jan 30, 2016, 02:58 PM
Yellows were in 7-12 fow all day. A few 8" walleyes in the mix with a occasional perch here and there. Did catch a few white bass too. Was there 930 - 2. Mobility is the key.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crappyfishrman on Jan 30, 2016, 05:55 PM
Can't wait to fish this lake in 2 weeks. Fishing all Saturday the 13th then I'm participating in the Yellow bass bonanza!! Came in 91st last year, hoping to a little better this year! Anyone else fishing in the tournament?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Jan 30, 2016, 06:08 PM
I'll be there.  I've done it every year.  I love fishing it. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: justin1234 on Jan 30, 2016, 08:07 PM
febuary 14th?  man i dont think my wife would be cool with that.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Jan 30, 2016, 09:00 PM
Fishing it as well. Came in 25th last year and I can say I have much more confidence this year. Know the lake better, have backup spit's and a quality auger that won't dieven after 10 holes and have been hammering good-sized yellows the past week. Tournament morning will be a blast! Hope my spots will still produce but sometimes it seems the one time you're counting on them to be there they're gone lol. Good luck to anyone fishing the tournament!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Jan 30, 2016, 09:10 PM
With 250 teams it's hard to be sure you get the spot you want. There's going to be a lot of 50 fish teams
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crappyfishrman on Jan 30, 2016, 11:49 PM
I wanna try to stay mobile, but last year we raced off to our spot and then got surrounded by like 25 teams. Hard to hole hop when your surrounded. We got a hotel Friday night so we can get out there early in the morning Saturday and try to find our "magic" lure
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Jan 31, 2016, 08:40 AM
They say mud bugs, I don't know how they can beat tungsten though.  I'd love to know size and color to try for mud bugs to try them.  I also like glow spoons with a dropper chain.  Have to get down fast when you find them!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Jan 31, 2016, 02:20 PM
I like mud bugs but prefer dingle drops of the two. Sometimes I'll use pilkes...all depends on my mood I guess. Haven't found any of them to be better than the other...Mud Bugs pop out of their mouths easier...they tend to swallow the Dingle drop except the small and heavy design of the Dingle punches through the ice in the hole...I don't always clean out my holes and when I do its just to Clear enough ice out of to fish. Pilkes/dropper chains work well for getting down there faster and punching through the ice, just harder to feel the bite. Anyways fished Clear today, took home 3/4s a 6 gallon bucket filled. 75ish I'd say. Bite was terrible...yesterday everyone was pulling them out one after another on Farmer's and Baptists and everywhere in between...today I got some nice ones in my secret spot and tried farmers/Baptists without as much as a mark. Checked all the holes yesterday producing with not as much as a mark. Didn't see anyone else getting anything either. Was going to try little lake but someone broke through at the clearing with their truck and as I was leaving talked to another group that said they had little luck at little lake so I called it. Lots of standing water...it's a slushy/wet mess and sucks hole hopping
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Jan 31, 2016, 06:38 PM
Sounds like we fish em exactly the same
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Feb 01, 2016, 07:23 PM
Bockster, I replied to your PM (twice if I sent one).  Not sure if it went through or not.  I haven't sent many PM's and can't see if I sent one under sent
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Mr.Seaguar on Feb 02, 2016, 11:23 AM
I use buckshot rattle spoons with a hali dropper. But not at Clear lake. Mostly so I can get back down there fast when the school is below. I tip with several  maggots, that way if they rip one off its not a problem. My next trip I have some powerball maggots I am going to try. I use 10# power pro with a 12# mono leader. When I have $7 worth of tackle on, I want it to come back up. You can sense every nibble with power pro
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Feb 02, 2016, 04:42 PM
Bockster: Don't know about the permies but know of a guy who said he was going to take his wheel house off yesterday a.m. & it was gone in the p.m. off of farmers beach Also seen a pickup pull a small trailer off at farmers no planks      As far as spoons go I use them over 1/2 the time usually tipped with either several spikes or cut bait. I use slender spoons, kastmaster, buckshot or Swedish pimple all in the small size with or without dropper hooks. other times I use a mudbug Haven't tried a tungsten yet.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Feb 02, 2016, 05:07 PM
When I got ready to leave the lake last nite stopped to talk to a couple guys found out they were from St.Paul first trip for one second for other didn't know about thin ice between big & little lakes but they crossed there said they felt the ice give a little  anyway I directed them to the farmers beach outlet & to the interstate. I felt like I had done my good deed and maybe left a couple of fishermen a chance to fish another day.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Feb 02, 2016, 05:12 PM
I really wish they'd put up thin ice signs at the channel. They have them at the aerators so why not the channel?? People have put their trucks through and died at the channel in the past and still no signs? A lot of people aren't aware of the channel that aren't from around here and they cross it anyways without knowing...Even at the thin Ice signs at the ramps that show thin ice at the aeratorspot that the channel isn't marked
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Oldbear on Feb 02, 2016, 05:40 PM
I know what you mean Bockster.  I can't imagine why they can't figure that out.   IMO it wouldn't hurt if they redirected people by signs to cross the beach to get to the big lake. 

I fished the little lake and the Baptist camp area yesterday with not much for luck even though a lot of holes were drilled.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: potatoe on Feb 02, 2016, 06:20 PM
Where is the Baptist Camp area located, just curious do not need hot spot info. Might need to head North again if we keep getting warm temps.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Huntindave on Feb 02, 2016, 06:42 PM
Where is the Baptist Camp area located, just curious do not need hot spot info. Might need to head North again if we keep getting warm temps.
Just east of Macintosh State Park on the North shore of the main lake and west of the "pump house".
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Feb 02, 2016, 07:33 PM
I agree with Brockster 100% How much does it cost to save a life?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: potatoe on Feb 02, 2016, 07:34 PM
Just east of Macintosh State Park on the North shore of the main lake and west of the "pump house".

Thanks for info
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: huntneiowa on Feb 02, 2016, 08:43 PM
Got next two Sunday's free to fish and have had great luck at clear lake last time I was there. This weekend not a problem but the weekend after is ybb. Would it be a waste of my time to try it or do you think I will be wasting my time? What are the boundaries for the ybb?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Feb 02, 2016, 08:57 PM
Asked the DNR about marking channel last year....

The response was "they only mark man made areas" I.e. aerators.

 If, they marked the naturally occurring areas like the channel it opens them up to lawsuits...

Makes sense in this day and age. Guy drives over rocks on island goes through he sues cause they didn't put up signs.


 I would not let the YBB scare you off. There will be plenty of fish the following weekend.

Good luck
 Chris




Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: huntneiowa on Feb 02, 2016, 09:12 PM
So the east boundary for the YBB are the thin ice markers west of the irrigator by baptist correct? So if I'm east of thin ice signs I'll have it all to myself
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tracksnorth on Feb 02, 2016, 09:26 PM
Yes I was out there Yesterday evening and that crossing from the little lake to the big lake is no good. Had to enter from the pump house.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Feb 02, 2016, 09:37 PM
What's wrong with that crossing?  Will guys have to walk over for the tournament?  Chris, would there be a possibility of no ATV/Snowmobiles being allowed to cross from little lake to big lake for the tourny?  I know it's a ways off, but curious anyhow.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Feb 02, 2016, 09:50 PM
I think I will wait until 1 pm. shouldn't have to drill any holes
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Mr.Seaguar on Feb 02, 2016, 10:53 PM
I think I will wait until 1 pm. shouldn't have to drill any holes

Good thinking
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Feb 03, 2016, 07:58 AM
I think I will wait until 1 pm. shouldn't have to drill any holes

We will have a route marked for ATV travel. Markers will go up on Friday morning for prefishing.

Thanks
Chris
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Feb 03, 2016, 08:02 AM
Good deal, You guys do a great job!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: minnow_master on Feb 03, 2016, 01:52 PM
hiya!  Thinking about fishing this weekend.  Can anyone tell me how much snow accumulated on the lake and is it a slush-fest?  Can a truck still get around with the snow?  Thank you in advance!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tracksnorth on Feb 04, 2016, 07:05 PM
Yes as far as the little lake a truck can get out. Kevan Paul cleared a road out to about twenty three fow yesterday.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: huntneiowa on Feb 04, 2016, 07:38 PM
Hopefully by Saturday everyone will have it all packed down. Put chains on four wheeler but it's only a 300 and not much clearance for the deep stuff
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Feb 04, 2016, 08:37 PM
What about the access at the pumphouse? Anyone getting through there yet or Farmers??
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Feb 05, 2016, 05:33 AM
was wondering about farmers too ?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tracksnorth on Feb 06, 2016, 09:29 AM
Haha I'm sorry to keep chiming in like this fellas but I've been restricted to fishing just clear lake lately. Farmers and the pump house are both a go.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Feb 06, 2016, 07:29 PM
Lots of snow on the lake...Very hard to hole hop and got stuck in my truck in front of Farmer's. Very weird day...The east side of Baptist was naked. All my go to yellow spots weren't producing so I joined the crowd at Baptist. Only way to get out of the wind. Ended with 75 big yellows..only kept 9"+...threw back at least that many 7"~ yellows
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: whip2 on Feb 06, 2016, 07:50 PM
Bockster

How did you access Babtist?

Thanks
Whip2
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Feb 06, 2016, 08:02 PM
I launched at Farmer's and drive across. Saw guys get down through the pumphouse. Plan on trying again tomorrow morning hopefully before the wind picks up
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Feb 07, 2016, 06:25 PM
Anyone do any good today ?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Feb 07, 2016, 06:37 PM
Today was very tough for my group.

Complete opposite of yesterday.

 Walleye bite continues to be good in the evenings. Picking up a few keepers every time out.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crappyfishrman on Feb 08, 2016, 08:23 AM
So no crossing with a truck from the little lake to the big lake? Coming up Friday, can't wait to fish this lake all weekend!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Oldbear on Feb 08, 2016, 09:43 AM
I wouldn't cross at the narrows between the two, current.  I'd pull out and Go over to the pumphouse where their going out to the Baptist camp and big lake.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MidnightRambler on Feb 08, 2016, 10:59 AM
So looking at the YBB website, the hours for the tournament are 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM? Or does tournament fishing start at 8:00 AM, as is suggested in another place? http://yellowbassbonanza.com/registration/2015-clear-lake-open-water-ybb-rules-2/

I ask because I am going to be up in the CL area next weekend, and I plan on heading to Clear Lake for some early morning fishing on Sunday. I am not taking part in the tournament, and plan to be off the ice early in the day. I am also not going out from Macintosh or anywhere on the Little Lake, for obvious reasons.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Feb 08, 2016, 12:00 PM
Starts at 9 although people will be flooding in around 7-8 to line up with their quads/snowmobiles around Mcintosh
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Mr.Seaguar on Feb 08, 2016, 12:13 PM
Midnight Rambler, if you are not going to be in the tournament can you do me a big favor?  Get in line like all the people that are and then at about 830 tearass right through the middle of them, right out onto the lake and never look back. Please please pretty please?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: whlfxr on Feb 08, 2016, 12:47 PM
Now that would be funny right there!!!!  Stirrrr the Pot!!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crappyfishrman on Feb 08, 2016, 12:57 PM
I'm hoping to catch more than just 38 fish this year during the tournament. Gonna try to stay more mobile, looks like it is gonna be a cold one this year tho!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Feb 08, 2016, 01:14 PM
I don't mind a cold year...means less people will be eager to move   ;D I can make a deal with ya Rambler...I'll send you my GPS coordinates and you go drill those areas out before the tournament! Sounds like a win win!  But on a side note...Baptist is going to get hammered. That whole west end of it will be an absolute city both Saturday and Sunday. A lot worse than less year
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Feb 08, 2016, 01:37 PM
I hope baptist looks like swiss cheese.  makes hole hopping easier.  That is one good thing if a guy wanted to fish after the tournament there are plenty of holes
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crappyfishrman on Feb 08, 2016, 01:38 PM
Baptist sounds like it will be like the spot I was in for 2015. We were completely land locked in all directions. Must of been 40 people ice fishing around me.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crappyfishrman on Feb 08, 2016, 01:56 PM
I posted on Pauls fbook page, but did you read that supposedly dnr will be enforcing atv regulations this weekend. I'm curious to see how strict they will be on having passengers on atvs and snowmobiles that don't have a passenger seat. Or if they will allow people to ride on trailers. Kinda wish they just made everyone walk, but that's just because I don't have a atv  :)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MidnightRambler on Feb 08, 2016, 05:12 PM
Heh heh. Maybe I can keep creeping inside of 20' on contest anglers, forcing them to move.

Just kidding. My plan is to get in some fishing early and be off the lake when the tournament starts, and a 9:00 AM start time works pretty well for that. I suppose I could go out from the north side somewhere on the Little Lake before sunrise, but I would still get stuck in the commotion, and I'd rather avoid it as much as possible.

I would not be planning a trip to CL for non-contest fishing on this of all weekends, but my wife is from the area and we are going to be there for a family function this weekend. I have Sunday morning to kill, so a trip to CL works out well.

As far as fishing goes, sounds like there will be more snow on the ice by the weekend. That will not make hole-hopping any easier.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Feb 08, 2016, 05:43 PM
I posted on Pauls fbook page, but did you read that supposedly dnr will be enforcing atv regulations this weekend. I'm curious to see how strict they will be on having passengers on atvs and snowmobiles that don't have a passenger seat. Or if they will allow people to ride on trailers. Kinda wish they just made everyone walk, but that's just because I don't have a atv  :)

We are allowing people to ride on trailers and in shacks.

We are wanting all ATV fisherman to park at Lynn lorenzen ramp and Ventura marsh lot. Then check in at the stars and stripes flying high out in front of Macintosh.

Thanks
Chris

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: huntneiowa on Feb 08, 2016, 07:14 PM
So it says it's a team or solo event. Is the entry fee the same for both?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crappyfishrman on Feb 08, 2016, 07:33 PM
It's $100 for a team or solo. It's been full for over a month tho. this is hands down the best time ever! My brother doesn't even like to fish but has a blast fishing the ybb. The prize payouts are unreal!!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Feb 08, 2016, 09:53 PM
How does everyone cook up large batches of yellows? I usually cook mine in just Crushed Ritz/saltines panfried. Delicious but after a batch or two the oil starts getting too hot and the pan is filled with burnt crumbs and just doesn't cook well after a batch or two...For those that deep fry a gallon of yellow fillets at one fry what is your receipe? Thanks!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Feb 08, 2016, 10:34 PM
I like andys red or the original shore lunch.  Andy's red is by far my favorite.  Letting fish sit in batter for 5 minuets before frying seems to help it stick better.  I actually pat dry my fillets with a towel, put the seasoning/breading in a gallon bag, put the fillets in the bag (I usually have about 1" square chunks), blow air in the bag, and shake.  I only do a handful at a time and add seasoning/breading as needed, set on a plate until all of your fillets are coated, to the fridge for 5 min, then fry and enjoy.  I do that with all of my fish except walleye which usually see the grill or the oven.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MidnightRambler on Feb 09, 2016, 09:23 AM
I usually make big batches of yellow bass filets in to chowders, stir fries, or soups.

It saves the hassle of breading a couple hundred filets, and then cleaning up afterwards.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crappyfishrman on Feb 09, 2016, 04:04 PM
I don't remember when the atv was givin away last year. Did they give it away at the banquet? I'd be one happy fisherman if I won the atv this year!!!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Feb 09, 2016, 05:07 PM
No the atv wasn't given away last year. They had originally tagged 10 yellows and released them the night prior in the spots they assumes would be fished most: Farmer's, Baptist, Mcintosh, Lorenz area I believe and a few other areas I can't remember off the top of my head. None of the yellows were caught and to this day I don't believe any have been caught...Which goes to show just how many yellows are in that lake. Of course it's possible some died or became muskie chow but being none were caught yet really shows how big the Yellow population is. I don't think anyone other than Kevan, Chris and the others helping know how they plan on giving away the quad away this year. Part of me feels it'll be raffled to give everyone a fair chance while part of me feels there will be a little competition to it similar to the tagged yellows. Really don't know how else they could do it...Biggest yellow maybe but ir would be a pain in the rear to go and measure/weigh everyone's top fish. We'll find out Saturday night. Haven't seen Kevan on here but I know Chris is...Wanna give a big thanks to you guys and everyone else that's worked hard to create this event...It's much appreciated by the 505 (Or how many else) other Anglers fishing in the tournament and good luck to everyone else!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Buckshots on Feb 09, 2016, 06:18 PM
The quad will be given away after the weigh in. Every team entered has a chance to win. They will draw a team number and that team will win it. You must be present to win.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bullhead King on Feb 10, 2016, 08:48 PM
I asked Kevan in December when I seen him up in Cabelas on how they are giving away the 4 wheeler.  He told me that each team will have 2 entries. If you are a solo team then you have 2 chances, if your team has 2 people in it then you have a chance and your partner has a chance. It will be drawn after or at the weigh in and you must be present.

I don't know how many teams there are officially as I know there have been some on eBay, but just to use round numbers, if there were 250 teams then you have a 1 in 500 chance of winning it.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crappyfishrman on Feb 11, 2016, 05:53 AM
No reason to hang around just go home :) can't wait to drive to clear lake tomorrow.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Feb 14, 2016, 08:02 PM
how deeps the snow on the lake  also how are the accesses at farmers & the pump house 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Feb 14, 2016, 10:18 PM
Congrats to everyone that fished the tournament and lasted the whole time. It was a cold, brutal and tough bite.Whiteout conditions in the beginning..Our shack flipped over and snapped a rod and broke my polarized glasses. Didn't mark a fish until two hours in and it was lights out after that...struggled with size...Lots of fish caught just all those skinny 8"s....Ended up 13th with 16.58 pounds...One nice fish from beating my friends that finished 10th. Came really close those last 25 places...Awesome tournament already looking forward to next year!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crappyfishrman on Feb 15, 2016, 05:57 PM
Got 67 place. Kicking myself for not sticking it out on big lake all day. Sounds like the bite turned back on when I left for the small lake!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Feb 15, 2016, 10:21 PM
I talked to guys who kicked butt until 11:30 and then nothing, and I talked to guys who had nothing and kicked butt after 11:30.  Sure is interesting that it happened that way.  After our good run of fish was done we never marked a fish.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Feb 17, 2016, 05:42 PM
Drove on big Lake and little lake today. Wouldn't recommend driving on Farmer's or the south side for little lake. Lots of slushy areas on Farmer's that looked sketchy. Did best on Little lake for yellows
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: justin1234 on Feb 17, 2016, 09:22 PM
thanks bockster.   
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crk89 on Feb 19, 2016, 05:11 PM
Drove off of L.L.access. ..plenty of ice but I'm sure by tomorrow driving out may be done? Fished for 3 hours with my grandson (7:30 to 10:30) until we couldn't buck the wind anymore! He was a trooper!! Got 25 yellows for our effort...drove around to all the  access points and L.L. was the only place anyone was going off of...10ft and cut bait. Good luck!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Feb 19, 2016, 10:47 PM
I remember reading someone on here saying it's impossible to catch a limit of eyes and they offered a million bucks to anyone that could get their 3...Well Where's my million? Limit of eyes today...Even threw a couple 16's back.

Saw people driving on Little and big Lake today...I wouldn't recommend it..I'm walking from here out. From what I've heard the access at Mcintosh and Farmer's is bad and the best way to drive a vehicle on is through the pumphouse or Ventura launch. Again I wouldn't recommend driving...Lots of standing water.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Kevin23 on Feb 20, 2016, 03:34 PM
Heard a couple trucks got stuck today. Not sure which access
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Feb 20, 2016, 04:34 PM
Two trucks "put their tires through".... one at the Ice heave crossing between big and little lake and one around the channel. I wasn't there, just saw pictures. Looked like the guy at the heave put his front right tire in and the guy around the channel put his front bottom in. Again only saw pictures. Better start breaking out the waders boys...Only a few weekends until we'll be hammering the yellows at the island and shallow water eyes ;D
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: potatoe on Feb 23, 2016, 09:27 PM
What are ice conditions like on little lake, we might make one last trip ice fishing for the year.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: whip2 on Feb 24, 2016, 07:03 AM
I drove by yesterday about 2:00 and there were only 2 trucks out & they were both on the West side of the little lake.
I would guess that they drove on at the Lynn Lorenzen access.
About 20 more portables scattered elsewhere but we're all on foot.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: potatoe on Feb 24, 2016, 04:35 PM
Thanks whip, we might make the trek one last time. Had fun for sure this year with my son.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: spoofhoundicefisher on Feb 26, 2016, 05:43 PM
have a friend who lives near the lake and was thinking of making one last trip up maybe next weekend or will that be too late.  how are the ice conditions.  thanks
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Feb 26, 2016, 09:49 PM
warning as of 6pm part of heave at farmers beach gave way 4wheeler are done there be careful walking out or back as don't know how long rest will last
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Feb 29, 2016, 07:09 PM
Was on all weekend and today. Still plenty of ice...14-16"...Haven't personally measured but haven't noticed much if any decline in ice. Wouldn't recommend launching at the pumphouse however...Ice over those reeds is only 8" and there were some dead carp that were floating in an opened hole...as in a big square hole not an auger hole. Also it's a muddy mess at the "launch" there. Launched at Farmers today...big ice heave with expose water at the heave just walk over or around it. I did see a quad get over it this morning. Fished at Farmer's and Baptists today...Farmers was better between the two. Baptist was weird...You'd mark fish in a hole but after catching one they'd all be gone..even tried tag teaming a hole and after catching one they'd just vanish. Didn't have that problem at Farmer's. We drilled 150+ holes at Farmer's and another 50 at Baptist...Mobility is key right now. Lots of sorting...Seems you'd catch 3-4 dinks to every keeper. We did best in 7fow. Depends on weather this week but we should be good for this one last weekend...Depends if we get rain or not...Forecast keeps changing. It was supposed to be warm and sunny today but look how that turned out...Supposed to be below freezing next few days but I see nothing but 55-65° from Saturday on up. Enjoy your last weekend on the ice!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: spoofhoundicefisher on Feb 29, 2016, 08:26 PM
i am about 4 and a half hours from clear lake.  wanting to hit the ice one last time and would like to make a trip up there and hook up with someone who is pretty familiar with the lake this weekend.  could possible be there friday morning.  my parents live in des moines which is about half way and i could stay with them the nite before.  have all my own stuff and just looking to tag along with some fellow shanty members.  don't have any problem drilling my own holes and bringing my own bait.  if someone would be interested in helping out an old boy please pm me.  thanks
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: minnow_master on Mar 01, 2016, 11:11 AM
hiya!  Looking to make it out there for my first time this season (And last from the looks of it!) Can anyone chime in on the driving situation or is everyone basically walking out now?  Thanks!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Mar 06, 2016, 05:21 PM
Ice was still around 12 with lots of water on top. East end of the main lake is starting to open up...Grades opening up too. Might have a few more days of walking if anything. Bite was terrible anyways...All of Farmer's, Baptist and Little lake covered all day with a measley 25 yellows to show for it. Dodges Point is also opening up by West aerator. There's still summer time Clear Lake  forums on the Iowa Sportsman forums l.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: pboer on Dec 17, 2016, 10:00 AM
Anybody been out at Clear Lake??? I was on Lake Hendricks and caught small sunnies.  A week ago the ice was 3".
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Wally Lindner on Dec 19, 2016, 07:54 PM
I see the Dome bait shop is making a comeback.   :clap:
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: whip2 on Dec 20, 2016, 04:57 AM
I did see that there was an added addition to the Dome Building but had no idea it was for a Bait Shop. Any idea when it is supposed to be open?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Dec 20, 2016, 08:14 PM
No clue on the Dome Bait shop but fished little lake today from 1-4pm. Left with 110 yellows and one walleye. Released several crappie, perch and whites.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Dec 21, 2016, 06:40 AM
No clue on the Dome Bait shop but fished little lake today from 1-4pm. Left with 110 yellows and one walleye. Released several crappie, perch and whites.
how deep were you fishin
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: JacobHokanson on Dec 21, 2016, 04:59 PM
i have heard people say "little lake" a bunch of times, are you all referring to the littler looking body of water to the west of the big lake? just south of ventura? I'm sure this is a silly question....
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Huntindave on Dec 21, 2016, 05:54 PM
i have heard people say "little lake" a bunch of times, are you all referring to the littler looking body of water to the west of the big lake? just south of ventura? I'm sure this is a silly question....

You got it figured out.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SpoonieLuv on Dec 21, 2016, 06:29 PM
Anyone been out on Farmers or any other main lake areas? Just wondering how the ice is.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: wmcox on Dec 21, 2016, 08:17 PM
So I have a question. I am planning a trip out to see what this lake is all about. Just curious on how easy these yellows are to find? It would probably be a 2 or 3 day trip. I have a quad to use once the ice is thick enough. I have all the other necessary gear. Just wondering if I would be able to meet up with someone to talk fishing once I make it out there. I'm not looking for specific spots. Just a general rundown of how the fishing is on this lake.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Dec 21, 2016, 08:55 PM
east of blacktop is little lake west is Ventura marsh
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Dec 22, 2016, 01:37 AM
Went out with a friend today.
Fished 8pm-5pm
Left with 324 yellows and released whites/crappies/perch
Buddy I was with caught a 15" crappie on cutbait
Forage spoons/Mud Bugs/ Pilkes with cutbait or spikes
Avoid the crowds 
Little lake
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SpoonieLuv on Dec 22, 2016, 05:47 AM
Bockster, are you drilling and moving to stay on the yellows?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: D0wnbyth3r1v3r on Dec 22, 2016, 09:31 AM
Went out with a friend today.
Fished 8pm-5pm
Left with 324 yellows and released whites/crappies/perch
Buddy I was with caught a 15" crappie on cutbait
Forage spoons/Mud Bugs/ Pilkes with cutbait or spikes
Avoid the crowds 
Little lake

Whats the thickness of the ice?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Dec 22, 2016, 03:40 PM
Moving around a lot yes. Normally the first and last hour of sunlight you can stay put on a hole and the fish will stay put. Caught 100 of those yellows off our last hole that we just stayed on top of for an hour. Ice was probably 8-10". Didn't measure
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Track792 on Dec 22, 2016, 04:04 PM
Bockster

Thanks for sharing your information.

I would assume there running ATV's and snowmobiles on the ice up there? I have never fished Clear Lake but with the rain coming for central Iowa I am planning on heading there on Monday.


Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: sitandfish on Dec 23, 2016, 07:56 AM
I have never fished Clear Lake but with the rain coming for central Iowa I am planning on heading there on Monday.

Same...I have all next week off, but its looking like I'm going to have to head north to have ice that i feel comfortable with!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SpoonieLuv on Dec 23, 2016, 09:31 AM
The ice will be fine. I hope it rains so it melts the snow and it freezes back nice and smooth, lots easier to pull sleds.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Ihawkangler on Dec 24, 2016, 08:26 AM
Spud bar, ice picks, rope and floating suit or life jacket.  I used to be more trusting "because other people were on the ice" until I went through up to my chest.  It's easy to get in a rush, not want to turn around to get something you left behind, etc., but take a few extra minutes and run through the checklist.  Not trying to be the Ice Safety Patrol, just know how I am when I am trying to hustle out the door to get on the ice.  Rods, flasher, waxies, ice spikes always make it, but I get a bit lazy with the safety gear.

Safe fishing and Merry Christmas.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: sitandfish on Dec 25, 2016, 08:42 PM
Anyone going to be fishing up here tomorrow?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: lewis66 on Dec 25, 2016, 09:00 PM
Anyone going to be fishing up here tomorrow?
Sure plan on it, was tossing the idea around with some Des Moines guys, I think I can find a place sheltered a little from the wind. On the south side. What do you think?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: justduwe on Dec 25, 2016, 11:11 PM
Anyone going to be fishing up here tomorrow?

I'll be up tomorrow. Hoping I can get on some yellows.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Ihawkangler on Dec 26, 2016, 05:48 PM
I am heading up tomorrow and may stay over and fish Wednesday.  If anyone is interested in meeting up, message me. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bates on Dec 30, 2016, 08:08 AM
The Dome Bait Shop is back open.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ncraun35 on Dec 30, 2016, 10:38 AM
Anyone have an ice thickness report. Taking a newbie with me and want to be able to tell her how thick it is before we make the 2 hours drive. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: squ1rr31_ on Dec 30, 2016, 10:56 AM
The Dome Bait Shop is back open.

Makes me wonder if Clear Lake can support 3 bait shops, that seems a bit excessive.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: EricB86 on Dec 30, 2016, 09:21 PM
I agree! I already feel bad for the Crazy Minnow! KP is too well known up there and he is gonna end him putting both of them out of business! Hopefully they all prosper!!! I will have to spread out my purchases up there and give them all a fair shake!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: crappie98 on Jan 01, 2017, 11:18 AM
No worries about the crazy minnow up there as Dan knows how to run a business unlike others.  He also supplies many places with bait including the dome.  The dome and crazy minnow sit in good locations to get bait.  Off of a busy highway that is a pain in the butt to get on and off with a boat. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Jan 01, 2017, 12:19 PM
Crazy Minnow also repairs rod & reels +does bulk orders on bait
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: samface83 on Jan 03, 2017, 12:10 PM
Makes me wonder if Clear Lake can support 3 bait shops, that seems a bit excessive.

Right now there is great momentum, hundreds of people on the lake yesterday. I think there is enough to sustain 3 right now, but could drop off quickly.  I think the bait shop business is tough enough without bashing one or the other.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: huntneiowa on Jan 07, 2017, 08:16 PM
I was there all day, all over baptist then too little lake drill drill drill all day one little walleye
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 641cfrank on Jan 08, 2017, 01:25 PM
Thought I'd share this...
(http://i1110.photobucket.com/albums/h459/641cfrank/IMG_1444.jpeg) (http://s1110.photobucket.com/user/641cfrank/media/IMG_1444.jpeg.html)
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: grizzwald660 on Jan 08, 2017, 07:32 PM
I think someone posted this on Facebook. I'm not smart enough to find it. Someone found a bucket. With stuff in it. Anyone wanna help. Thanks
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Jan 08, 2017, 08:41 PM
checked my ice fishing face books didn't find anything might try posting on heartland icemem or no ad icefishing
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Jan 08, 2017, 08:45 PM
also check with the crazy minnow bait shop
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 641cfrank on Jan 08, 2017, 11:42 PM
I think someone posted this on Facebook. I'm not smart enough to find it. Someone found a bucket. With stuff in it. Anyone wanna help. Thanks

Yeah I got this from Facebook... I can relay a message if needed.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Jan 09, 2017, 09:45 PM
Had a rough couple days. Was in 16fow and had no luck. Noticed everyone is in shallow for the most part. Why would that be at this time of year?
Anyone else having the same outcome?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SpoonieLuv on Jan 10, 2017, 05:40 AM
Fish can be shallow any time of the year. Caught them in as little as 2 fow in dead of winter.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: luckydog35 on Jan 11, 2017, 08:50 AM
Clear lake has changed in many ways over the years....

Mostly for the good!!! We have seen a huge increase in vegetation in the past 5 years. This is due to several factors, dnr water quality projects, zebra mussels, low water from drought a few years ago all play a part. The dredge project probably having the largest impact. Helping with water quality and altering the location of fish.

It has been exciting for me,as an angler, I appreciate the challenge to learn new techniques and locate the fish in their ever changing lake.

The massive amount of weeds that have appeared in 5ft and less. Would be a great reason to fish shallower than we are accustomed. I found this to be true all summer as well. The fish are with the food, that happens to be ultra shallow, right now.

I don't claim to know everything about fishing. Hell, I learn more about it everyday, that's the excitement of it all!! Mostly from these young anglers coming up who aren't stuck in their ways.....

Thanks and good luck!!
Chris
Clbt owner




Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Jan 11, 2017, 10:52 AM
Well said luckydog35.
I hope to make it out tomorrow and Friday morning then hopefully a day this weekend. Anyone know if the bite has picked up a little?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Crappyfishrman on Jan 11, 2017, 01:01 PM
Hopefully the bite is good again this year for the yellow bass bonanza! 3rd year for me, hoping to make it to top 25 this year!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Oldbear on Jan 15, 2017, 03:42 PM
A lot of fishing goes on at the West end of the lake so it will be nice to have the Dome open again.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Jan 15, 2017, 08:30 PM
I left with 59 Friday, 70 yesterday and 163 today. Fishing 7-9fow away from the crowd. Took a lot of drilling to find fish.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: MidnightRambler on Jan 16, 2017, 09:03 AM
Things that have changed on Clear Lake since I started fishing it on occasion in the late 1990s. Most of this did happen after the dredging:

A LOT fewer bullheads today than in 1999.

More crappie and perch now. I've even heard rumors of people catching decent bluegill on CL.

The best ice-fishing moved from the east end around the island to the western side of the lake where the dredging was done.

What hasn't changed:

Lots of 13.9" walleye, and billions of yellow bass.

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SpoonieLuv on Jan 16, 2017, 10:14 AM
Why wouldn't the Island area still be decent, or the east end?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: jstfish on Jan 16, 2017, 11:16 AM
What does one do with all those yellow bass ? Are they good eating. Can honestly say I've never tried one.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Jan 16, 2017, 01:03 PM
Yes they're good eating. I give most of mine away or throw big fish frys just because of the fact I can only eat so many per week and I'm cleaning 10x  as many on the weekends lol. I prefer them deep fried with a crunchier/seasoned breading lile Andys. Always put them in salt water over night.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Jan 16, 2017, 06:37 PM
Things that have changed on Clear Lake since I started fishing it on occasion in the late 1990s. Most of this did happen after the dredging:

A LOT fewer bullheads today than in 1999.

More crappie and perch now. I've even heard rumors of people catching decent bluegill on CL.

The best ice-fishing moved from the east end around the island to the western side of the lake where the dredging was done.

What hasn't changed:

Lots of 13.9" walleye, and billions of yellow bass.
bullheads next to none existence thanks to state stocking flatheads  bullheads used to be one of major food supplies for walleyes
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ralphy on Jan 16, 2017, 07:33 PM
Bockster

what does soaking them in saltwater overnight do?
What's  the salt to water mixture  you use?
thanks
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Jan 16, 2017, 08:57 PM
I noticed a stronger tatse without salting them. Most people said they couldn't tatse a difference but I could always  notice. Maybe it's all in my head but I always just eyed it and put some salt in with the bowl of fish fillets and water and let them Soak overnight before freezing. Before I'd cook them I'd let them sit in a bowl of milk for a half hour. Helps remove any fishy flavor and I use it to bond the breading to the fillets rather than using eggs. Between the salt and milk the fillets taste just like anything else. White flaky meat
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Jan 16, 2017, 10:16 PM
salt water helps  draw any blood out also use it on my wild game don't use any certain amount
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ice-aholic on Jan 17, 2017, 04:19 AM
I agree with drawing the blood out, we would always do this with catfish fillets, works good
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: baogongmeo on Jan 19, 2017, 01:44 PM
Two friends and myself have been planning on going to Clear Lake on our first ice fishing adventure starting the 30th. For you locals and experienced ice fishermen , is this going to be do-able and safe with the warmer weather and rain forecast for the next several days? Is this going to be a situation where it would be safe to walk but definitely don't drive?
I realize no-one can say for certain but your best guess would be appreciated as would any friendly advice .

Thank you in advance from the Newby
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Trump on Jan 19, 2017, 03:56 PM
fella with the long b name if you have the facebook there was a post yesterday from the crazy minnow bait shop and it was sent to me via text message but it was a photo looking out from McIntosh boat ramp Wednesday the 18th 16-20'' of ice out from shore he says and guys are still driving out it mentioned he did not know with the warm up how the accesses will take the abuse.  myself and others are headed tomorrow and taking wheelers one guy is bringing a shanty and I imagine he will be towing it out with the truck ill report back sunday.

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: baogongmeo on Jan 19, 2017, 04:02 PM
Trump, thank you and will be looking for your Sunday fishing report.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icefisher4 on Jan 19, 2017, 07:47 PM
Was anyone out tonight on the little lake? Wondering how the McIntosh ramp is? Going to spirit lake next weekend. And not sure how the ramp is gna hold up. I have to get my wheelhouse off of it to take over there.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Jan 19, 2017, 09:30 PM
drove on Clear Lake today both farmers beach & McIntosh no problems but some water on ice at McIntosh high today36 current 34 with fog & mist no or light wind high temp thru mon upper 30's & cloudy
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SchlitzBeer on Feb 03, 2017, 09:04 AM
Any updates for Clear Lake fishing? I'm heading up that way tomorrow.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: baogongmeo on Feb 03, 2017, 10:11 AM
Returned home last night from Clear Lake. It was my first ice fishing trip so I've still got a lot to learn but we caught fish.
We fished the reeds in about 3"-4" of water. Caught very few on minnows but they liked waxies. Several crappie 10"+ , a few bull gills ( lots of smalls) , yellow perch and bass both yellow and largemouth.
The ice is topped with frozen slush and very rough... where we were the ice was 18" or so.
My first bass was about 4-5 lb and as I was reaching down to lip him, the hook on the jig broke off right at the jig body.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: trex59 on Feb 03, 2017, 11:40 AM
Were you fishing the little lake in the reeds? My son are coming up this week to fish a few days before the YBB.  I have been watching the boards for clear to see what has been going on and what the travel conditions are?  Ice is either gone or going fast in eastern iowa and not worth it. This trip will be my first time this yr.  Other things kept me from going when the ice was good and when I have some time, the ice is not worth trying it!  I have only ice fished Clear a couple times before. This will be our 3rd YBB as we had to skip last year because it was valentines day, but my wife let me cross off a bucket list by doing the Eel pout festival on Leech! You have to do that at least once!
Glad that you caught some fish!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: baogongmeo on Feb 03, 2017, 01:20 PM
In the main lake but I would think that the little lake would be similar. Road conditions were dry.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Feb 04, 2017, 07:24 PM
DO NOT DRIVE THROUGH THE CHANNEL.
Fished the channel today (parking in front and walking into it drilling holes on the way). Saw people driving through in trucks without bothering to get out and check the thickness (Still super risky as the ice can go from 2' to 2" in a matter of yards in the channel and wouldn't recommend ever driving through it) There was OPEN WATER just off the sandbar in the channel.
Otherwise we drove on at Farmers and drovery in front of the channel--Thin Ice Markers-Farmers and everywhere in between. Ice conditions are fantastic with the exception of frozen tracks around the launches. We left with 100 yellows just running around trying to hit as many way points as possible. Not staying and catching buckets of fish at the hotter spots.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: justin1234 on Feb 04, 2017, 10:41 PM
is the channel the bit between the small lake and the big lake?   the  guy at the dome bait shop said dont drive between the lakes or near the spillway...
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Spark on Feb 05, 2017, 06:17 AM
Hey guys never fished the lake before, pretty excited too.  Anyways my question is, is there anyplace to clean your fish around the town.  Do any of the hotels have fish cleaning facilities. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Feb 07, 2017, 02:54 PM
You could call Dan at the CMC bait shop, he would know.   641-357-2248
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Feb 07, 2017, 02:59 PM
is the channel the bit between the small lake and the big lake?   the  guy at the dome bait shop said dont drive between the lakes or near the spillway...

Yes the channel is between the little lake and big lake. Dome was right, never drive through there. Guys have lost their life driving through the channel. The spillway is on the east side of the lake.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Kelvin44ia on Feb 08, 2017, 03:40 PM
Coming up this weekend for 1st time.
Any suggestions on where to start ?
I'll be trying to take crappies and
bluegills.  Thanks guys!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Feb 08, 2017, 06:05 PM
You'll be in a crowd bud.  It's tournament weekend!  Unfortunately I have no advice to give
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bates on Feb 08, 2017, 07:01 PM
Just stay away from them, they have boundaries.  I believe east of 2nd aerator in the big lake is tourney free.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: potatoe on Feb 08, 2017, 07:45 PM
What would Saturday be like on the lake, how busy on the little lake
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Feb 08, 2017, 08:17 PM
200+fisherman west of areater til noon with both parking areas full 1/2 the afternoon according to fishing report crappie & gills hitting next to rushes east of areater   only thing is you shouldn't have to drill any holes in tournament area in the p.m.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Kelvin44ia on Feb 09, 2017, 12:29 PM
Is there a walk-on area east of aerators, on the north side of the lake?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: prestonc on Feb 09, 2017, 08:08 PM
265 2 man teams. Over 500 people just in the tournament
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Feb 09, 2017, 09:21 PM
sorry thought they had a 100 team limit
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: reg01 on Feb 16, 2017, 07:11 PM
Thinking about fishing Clear Lake on Saturday afternoon.  I know the ice is still pretty thick, but do you thiink it will be safe Saturday afternoon/Sunday morning?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: 26perch on Feb 16, 2017, 10:40 PM
seen a couple autos (van & awd) this afternoon the question is if the shoe line is safe enough
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bryfish84 on Oct 14, 2017, 07:38 PM
What's the best tackle/bait for the yellows?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: potatoe on Oct 15, 2017, 08:32 AM
Give Clear Lake bait and tackle a call - talk to Kevin if you can

I would like to get into them this year also with son
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bryfish84 on Oct 15, 2017, 08:55 AM
I was in there last week. Was a high school aged kid working.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bockster on Oct 17, 2017, 04:04 PM
That high school aged kid beat every Iowan that fished last years YBB. 1st-3rd place were out of staters and he took home 4th.

* Yellows this year are big. Lots of 10"+ inch fish out there. Should have some heavy buckets this winter.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bryfish84 on Oct 17, 2017, 05:03 PM
That high school aged kid beat every Iowan that fished last years YBB. 1st-3rd place were out of staters and he took home 4th.

* Yellows this year are big. Lots of 10"+ inch fish out there. Should have some heavy buckets this winter.

Awesome for him, that's very impressive! Someone better step up this year so the first three places don't go to out of staters 😉 I was pretty impressed with the the bait shop. They had a lot of ice fishing gear out already. Seemed like pretty fair prices as well.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Figure ate on Nov 02, 2017, 01:52 PM
Hello all, new to the forum.

I've fished CL but only west of Baptist camp and little lake. Is the East basin any good through the ice? Any aeration on the East side?
Title: Clear Lake ice report
Post by: ybhunter on Dec 07, 2017, 09:40 AM
Please report if Clear Lake or Little Clear Lake has iced over yet?  I'm sure it won't be long before someone is walking out of McAntosh ...
Title: Re: Clear Lake ice report
Post by: matzilla on Dec 07, 2017, 09:52 AM
Clear Lake Bait and Tackle just posted on fb saying it iced over
https://www.facebook.com/Clearlakebait
Title: Re: Clear Lake ice report
Post by: D0wnbyth3r1v3r on Dec 07, 2017, 12:41 PM
Clear Lake capped over last night per Clear Lake Bait and Tackle. Follow there Facebook page if you haven't. If the conditions are right I may take a trip up next weekend.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: potatoe on Dec 07, 2017, 04:41 PM
I remember my first trip up last year, it snowed the day before. The snow was wet and slush, drilled a few holes caught one fish. I wish I understood the area better to catch a few with my son.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ybhunter on Dec 13, 2017, 12:51 PM
Any updates on ice condition. I heard the rain and win did a number on what little ice we had out there.  See some cold temps last few days.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: potatoe on Dec 13, 2017, 07:29 PM
Last post I read was not good, wondering the same also if anyone lives close
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: New User Name on Dec 13, 2017, 08:17 PM
Reports from various bait shops in Clear Lake on Facebook say the weather has made the ice on CL unsafe for any sort of travel at this time.  >:(
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: sitandfish on Dec 15, 2017, 11:31 AM
Thinking of heading up tomorrow morning Anybody been out this week? Ice report where should i avoid/fish?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: matzilla on Dec 15, 2017, 02:50 PM
Kevin Paul posted a video on fb of spud barring around Mccintosh boat ramp yesterday or wednesday....most ice was in decent shape with a few open water or thin ice holes further out...use caution if venturing off the beaten path. They're posting regular updates so follow on fb or give them a call
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SpoonieLuv on Dec 15, 2017, 05:28 PM
I was on the little lake today out of Vetura boat ramp. 4 to 5 inches most places, just use a spud bar and watch the frozen bubbles to check ice depth. Quite a few out from Macintosh ramp also.  Slow for most everyone that I talked to. People venturing out from Farmers beach today as well. Still some areas of concern as there is thin ice in pockets and some open water on main lake from the geese and swans. Be careful and good luck! 🐟😊
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Figure ate on Dec 15, 2017, 07:02 PM
I'll be out there tomorrow, good luck and be safe.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: potatoe on Dec 16, 2017, 06:09 PM
Good reports, I am not ready for the trip. Cold weather looks like Thursday
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: sitandfish on Dec 19, 2017, 12:11 PM
Any ice reports from farmers or baptist?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Figure ate on Dec 19, 2017, 04:04 PM
3-5 inches both places as of Saturday. It's been warm since then so use caution. If you want my opinion, stay safe and wait for better ice, it's freaking scary out there with 1 inch of ice butted up directly to 5".
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: potatoe on Dec 20, 2017, 05:08 PM
I made the trip today, I was the only one out there for a couple hours off Macintosh. I am still learning but I talked to several during the day and everyone reported very slow fishing. I did not venture out to far but had 3 - 4" where I drilled. I watched a few guys walk out pretty far on Little Lake.

I normally feel lost on this lake not understanding where to fish, but learning.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: D0wnbyth3r1v3r on Dec 26, 2017, 08:22 AM
Stay shallow for the yellows.
Title: Clear Lake
Post by: Bryfish84 on Dec 28, 2017, 07:00 PM
Has anyone been out on Clear Lake? When do the yellows and walleye usually start hitting up there?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: cbducks78 on Dec 28, 2017, 10:36 PM
Yellow bass, pretty much all the time.   Walleyes eat yellow bass all winter long, so to catch one is a bonus.  never had much luck targeting only walleye.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: whip2 on Dec 29, 2017, 04:21 AM
Bryfish

Scroll down & on the 26th of December there is an 89 page posting all about Clear Lake. Click on the last page & view post backwards because it is a carry over from last year. Lots of info there.

whip2
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: huntneiowa on Dec 29, 2017, 05:14 PM
Any ice updates or  ATV snowmobile traffic on the little lake? Heading over Sunday for the take a vet fishing get together.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bryfish84 on Dec 29, 2017, 08:46 PM

Thanks!

Bryfish

Scroll down & on the 26th of December there is an 89 page posting all about Clear Lake. Click on the last page & view post backwards because it is a carry over from last year. Lots of info there.

whip2
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: whip2 on Dec 30, 2017, 05:11 AM
huntneiowa

I suggest getting ahold of Clear Lake Bait & Tackle (641) 231-8028 or look them up on Face Book to get the latest info.

whip2
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Old Goat on Dec 30, 2017, 05:21 AM
Any ice updates or  ATV snowmobile traffic on the little lake? Heading over Sunday for the take a vet fishing get together.

sounds like a neat thing           done a few fishing has no boundaries outings here
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: TritleFishing on Jan 23, 2018, 09:50 AM
Any updates on Clear Lake after this warm-up?  Thinking of making the trip this Sunday. Thanks!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Wally Lindner on Jan 23, 2018, 11:18 AM
ramps are a liitle messy with ice still 18 inches.  Was on lake sunday & monday with 3/4 ton and wheel house.  lots of small perch
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: da_teacher on Jan 24, 2018, 12:04 PM
Bryfish

Scroll down & on the 26th of December there is an 89 page posting all about Clear Lake. Click on the last page & view post backwards because it is a carry over from last year. Lots of info there.

whip2

Made the trek from Denver last year to visit the fam and friends in DSM during President's Day weekend. Fished the big lake for a day and a half -- killed the yellows, mixed decent perch and gills, and a few slab crappie.  Hit three eyes the first day towards dusk in the shallow weeds -- biologists were out and was surprised that I caught an eye, let alone three!!!  All were keepers and within slot which I guess is shocking.  After I hit my first one, I got surrounded by the locals! One dude fished in a hole that I drilled three feet away where I previously had a deadstick rod in.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: mjmeyer on Mar 06, 2018, 09:24 PM
How's the ice looking on Clear Lake for Friday and Saturday? Is Macintosh landing usable?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SlabSultan on Mar 07, 2018, 10:27 AM
Last sunday morning, McIntosh ramp seemed to be deteriorating fairly quickly. Lots of standing water in the tire ruts. I left mid-morning, so I'm not sure how it held up through the afternoon. People were still driving on it then and it's been pretty cold since. My guess is there is a good chance it will still be usable
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: mjmeyer on Mar 07, 2018, 12:37 PM
Thanks! If nothing else, I'll walk on. Done it before, can do it again.

How did you do?

Mike
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SlabSultan on Mar 07, 2018, 02:56 PM
Did pretty well. The wind was definitely a factor, but a buddy and I got into the yellows during the low light hours on little lake. I'd say we put 30 on the ice between the two of us in the 2-3 hours we fished. Not the best day for yellows, but worth the trip. If you're fishing yellows, try using plastics. I've had great luck with spikes and a jig this winter, but artificial were all they would take last weekend.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: mjmeyer on Mar 07, 2018, 03:00 PM
Thanks for the tip. I'll definitely start with plastics, then. Any particular color?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SlabSultan on Mar 07, 2018, 03:17 PM
Orange/Chartreuse TriggerX Waxtail
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: mjmeyer on Mar 07, 2018, 03:33 PM
Thanks!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: whip2 on Mar 08, 2018, 06:16 AM
Clear Lake Bait & Tackle just reported on Facebook that they recommend Foot Traffic only or ATV if you know where the better ice is.

Whip2
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Lyontyl on Mar 08, 2018, 09:07 AM
Did pretty well. The wind was definitely a factor, but a buddy and I got into the yellows during the low light hours on little lake. I'd say we put 30 on the ice between the two of us in the 2-3 hours we fished. Not the best day for yellows, but worth the trip. If you're fishing yellows, try using plastics. I've had great luck with spikes and a jig this winter, but artificial were all they would take last weekend.

It all depends where you are at.  If you are on the fish they will take anything you put down there.  I was in one of my two producing spots on Sunday one was on little lake and one was on big lake and they were so ravenous I wasn't even using bait and catching them.  Gold did seem to work best but it didn't ultimately stop them from eating if I had a different color, I typically don't use plastics because the yellow bass just tear the heck out of them.  I would rather have them destroy 2-3 spikes on a hook.  We ended the day on Sunday between 2 of us with 138 yellows.  third time up there for the year and third time we caught over a hundred.  I think the biggest key and what people don't do enough is move.  If you drop a flasher down a hole and you don't have a fish come to your jig in 60 seconds then they aren't in that hole.  When you drop a jig down and all of sudden your screens lights up with fish you know you are going to get a mother load of yellows.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: mjmeyer on Mar 08, 2018, 09:19 AM
It all depends where you are at.  If you are on the fish they will take anything you put down there.  I was in one of my two producing spots on Sunday one was on little lake and one was on big lake and they were so ravenous I wasn't even using bait and catching them.  Gold did seem to work best but it didn't ultimately stop them from eating if I had a different color, I typically don't use plastics because the yellow bass just tear the heck out of them.  I would rather have them destroy 2-3 spikes on a hook.  We ended the day on Sunday between 2 of us with 138 yellows.  third time up there for the year and third time we caught over a hundred.  I think the biggest key and what people don't do enough is move.  If you drop a flasher down a hole and you don't have a fish come to your jig in 60 seconds then they are in that hole.  When you drop a jig down and all of sudden your screens lights up with fish you know you are going to get a mother load of yellows.

NOW I'm excited! Sounds like fun! Can't wait to get there!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Lyontyl on Mar 08, 2018, 11:09 AM
I would start at 12 ft of water and work your way shallower if you don't find any.  We will also be there again this weekend, probably Sunday. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Mi! on Mar 08, 2018, 11:48 AM
My dad, brother, and I are planning our first trip to Clear Lake this Saturday to try fishing for yellows.  Plan is to stay in the little lake as we aren't too familiar with the area.  I have the Navionics Boating App so will use that to find depths mentioned in the tips above.  Much appreciated.  From what I've read, you focus on flats at that depth and move often until you find them.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Central Iowa on Mar 09, 2018, 09:38 PM
Was there all day. Bite was tough this morning and picked up in the afternoon through evening. We had to keep moving to keep up with them all in 10-12 fow. 18” of hard ice on little lake.
Title: Clear Lake has ice!
Post by: Bryfish84 on Nov 15, 2018, 07:09 PM
I just saw Clear Lake is iced over. Looks like some people even found some ice to fish on. 3” isn’t enough for me to feel comfortable out there.
(https://i.postimg.cc/ZWNx9ZMY/05776499-9-FB3-4-E03-8-B28-06-AAD88369-EE.png) (https://postimg.cc/ZWNx9ZMY)

(https://i.postimg.cc/1f2K54MY/FAF3-E08-C-F9-EF-4-D42-AEDA-97-DAB47-CED53.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/1f2K54MY)
Title: Re: Clear Lake has ice!
Post by: Bentbolt on Nov 15, 2018, 07:15 PM
I been the pic of the guy fishing inside the shack yesterday and been thinking I should run out there but with only 3” I will wait til 6” to feel safer.
Title: Re: Clear Lake has ice!
Post by: Bryfish84 on Nov 15, 2018, 07:31 PM
Yeah.. 3” to me is t enough.
Title: Re: Clear Lake has ice!
Post by: Gills-only on Nov 15, 2018, 07:41 PM
3” more than enough for me, but too far to drive!! Lol
Title: Re: Clear Lake has ice!
Post by: New User Name on Nov 16, 2018, 09:18 AM
It sounds like it is 3" at most in spots.

If I lived close to Clear Lake and knew it well I just might be out there today with a spud bar taking a look at things near shore.

As is, I am not going to drive 150 miles one way to just look at some ice that isn't safe yet.

Clear Lake is supposed to get a couple inches of snow tonight. If that stays on the ice, or worse still it is rain before changing to snow, forget about it. But if the snow misses CL or blows off the ice tonight I may just think about heading up that way on Sunday, what with the colder temps forecast for tomorrow.  ;)

There are supposedly warmer temps coming next week, so whatever safe ice there might be on Clear Lake by Tuesday or so may be it for a couple weeks.
Title: Re: Clear Lake has ice!
Post by: Bryfish84 on Nov 16, 2018, 05:27 PM
Doesn’t look like it got above freezing there today.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Nov 18, 2018, 06:54 AM
We got 3" of snow in Clear Lake and it's 5º below zero now.  I'll drive around the lake today and check it out. Last Tuesday there was still open water at farmer's.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: New User Name on Nov 18, 2018, 08:12 AM
Did that 3"of snow stay on the ice? If it did a day or two of cold temps aren't going to do much in terms of building ice.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Nov 18, 2018, 12:03 PM
I checked it out. Yes the snow is insulating the ice. Nothing going on.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: New User Name on Nov 18, 2018, 01:12 PM
I checked it out. Yes the snow is insulating the ice. Nothing going on.

Yeah, that's what I figured would happen, but I hoped the snow up there was not the heavy wet stuff we got here.

Warmer weather and rain coming later this week, so no more ice-building for a little while. But it is mid-November, and the real winter will be here soon enough.
Title: Re: Clear Lake has ice!
Post by: Dwedemeier on Nov 19, 2018, 10:26 AM
Update on ice thickness?
Title: Re: Clear Lake has ice!
Post by: Bockster on Nov 19, 2018, 11:46 AM
We tried fishing it yesterday. Clear Lake has 0 fishable ice. Mcintosh has maybe 50 of 4.5" then it immediately drops to 2"....Lynn Lorenz was all 1-2" and Farmers was 2.5" for 30-40 yards. Rain Friday and 40s this week. We did manage to find fishable ice on small ponds north of Clear however. Crystal Lake is also still partially open.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: hotrod on Nov 20, 2018, 12:03 PM
Was up there on Sunday, checked Farmers, Lorenzen and MacIntosh.  not there yet.  There is a large "new ice seam" going directly into farmers and one from Lorenzen all the way to the narrow gap.  It was only an inch or so.  We did not fish.

I would think areas of that lake will be "good to go soon".
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: potatoe on Nov 21, 2018, 05:49 PM
I would like to make a trip up early this year, I tried last year but not much luck on early ice. Does it help to wait a few weeks to stabilize

I fished little lake from Macintosh ramp last year in December, still learning but it would nice to understand where they are at early.
Title: Re: Clear Lake has ice!
Post by: potatoe on Nov 21, 2018, 05:58 PM
Good info Bockster, I still want to learn from the expert how to find the yellows
Title: Re: Clear Lake has ice!
Post by: New User Name on Nov 23, 2018, 08:50 AM
If the forecast for Clear Lake is right, the rain, warm temps, and wind of the next couple days is a good thing.

I am guessing CL is still mostly covered right now with thin, unsafe ice, topped with snow. If it is, most of that will get cleaned up by Sunday, and then when the cold temps hit next week good ice will be able to form that much quicker.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Dwedemeier on Nov 26, 2018, 12:53 PM
Looks like the ice on the main lake held through the weekend. https://www.clearlakeboats.com/live-clear-lake-boats-marina--webcam
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: huntneiowa on Dec 02, 2018, 07:40 PM
How is the ice looking at clear lake? Thinking about heading over some time this week.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SchlitzBeer on Dec 04, 2018, 03:18 PM
No replies must mean good things. I would call the bait shop.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Dave R on Dec 04, 2018, 03:46 PM
Check out Clear Lake Bait and Tackle on FB. They are constantly posting updates. Looks like a good perch bite is going on.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: ranger185 on Dec 04, 2018, 06:48 PM
Was there today. Close to Farmers Beach. 5” or so of white chippy rough ice. Not the best quality, at least in that area. Spud bar easily (one poke) chopped the first 2”+ of it. Slush under areas that had snow on top. I think there is a good base but the couple of inches on top aren’t great. The auger blew thru the top and then dug in
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Agronomist_at_IA on Dec 04, 2018, 07:08 PM
Not sure what the temps call for over there. In my area The day time temps call for 14-20* and the night time temps -2 to 6* for the rest of the week. I would think with those temps it should firm up the ice and slush by this weekend.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Big Blue on Dec 06, 2018, 07:11 PM
The TV station reported 4-7" of ice today. I drove by the lake this morning and they're fishing along the edge of the weeds by the pump house On the little lake they're also fishing mostly along the edge of the weeds.  There was also a few guys fishing at lorenzen park. 
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: potatoe on Dec 08, 2018, 08:00 PM
Anyone making the trip tomorrow am, I am thinking about going solo

always fun to meet up with someone if possible
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: marble-eye03 on Dec 14, 2018, 08:53 PM
How thick is the ice on the lake?Havent been out yet but would like to go this weekend.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: potatoe on Dec 15, 2018, 08:35 PM
Last weekend a good 8" I would imagine on Sunday there was 150 people out all over. Spotted a UTV driving on ICE also.

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: OGCollard on Dec 17, 2018, 11:18 AM
We were there from saturday at ten and came back to omaha on sunday at 1 pm. There were way more than 150 people out there. And yes, anow mobiles, 4 wheelers, utvs, and even a full size ford were on the ice. The little lake was marking 8 - 10 inches, out from the island on the other end we were marking 12 - 15 inches of ice.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bryfish84 on Dec 17, 2018, 08:02 PM
It’s crazy how fast that lake freezes up.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Figure ate on Dec 17, 2018, 08:08 PM
My buddy had a ranger w/ tracks out there, 9-10 inches of ice by pump house and Baptist camp.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: potatoe on Dec 18, 2018, 08:53 PM
I made the trip again today, ice is in very good shape. I could not figure out the yellows, I was fishing next to a guy with same jig and bait. I could not catch one. The only difference would be the pole, reel, line, cadence / fisherperson. I left pretty disgusted with myself.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Fish Butcher on Dec 19, 2018, 09:01 AM
Do not beat yourself up to bad. Some guys have it in their hands.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Figure ate on Dec 20, 2018, 09:18 AM
I made the trip again today, ice is in very good shape. I could not figure out the yellows, I was fishing next to a guy with same jig and bait. I could not catch one. The only difference would be the pole, reel, line, cadence / fisherperson. I left pretty disgusted with myself.

If you're using a spring bobber the game is already lost. The yellows wanted it bouncing/quivering fast and not still or big jig strokes. Spring bobbers just kill all action. The hookset needs to be instant when they bite or you are too late. I put dozens on the ice right next to people who could mark fish, but catch nothing. Aldo keeping it within 8" of the bottom helped a ton
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: potatoe on Dec 22, 2018, 06:16 PM
Made the trip again, I actually caught a few in the morning. I was using a glow spoon with red spikes. I am amazed how many holes some people are drilling out there. The guys I normally fish with only drill a few and sit.

Just curious - I cleaned a few today and noticed a red line in the meat. Do you need to worry about cutting this out or just good to go.

Lots of people out today, met some really nice people who helped me and gave me some help.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bigtt on Dec 22, 2018, 08:55 PM
Kevan Pauls Guide Service may have Sleeper Rentals out in a week or so. Can you get fish in the sleeper all day or do you need too hole hop all day. And just fish the sleeper at night?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bus33 on Jan 02, 2019, 06:56 AM
Can a guy park in the Baptist camp and walk out from there?  Does the camp allow that?

Thanks for any info you may have.

Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Figure ate on Jan 02, 2019, 02:31 PM
Can a guy park in the Baptist camp and walk out from there?  Does the camp allow that?

Thanks for any info you may have.

No parking or access from Baptist camp itself. Private property
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bus33 on Jan 02, 2019, 04:25 PM
Thanks for the info.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: IceHead22 on Jan 06, 2019, 10:33 AM
Fished the little lake on a drop  off between 16 and 20 feet of water 1/5/19 from 3:30 to 6 pm.  The weeds came up 5 feet on the vex, lots of lookers, only a few short eyes were caught.  Still trying to figure this place out!
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bryfish84 on Jan 06, 2019, 01:44 PM
I didn’t have much luck on the little lake this morning. I should of maybe tried around Baptist. A ton of small perch. Marked fish like crazy.
Everyone I talked with on the ice was in the same situation.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: potatoe on Jan 06, 2019, 06:44 PM
It can be tough, I am about to hire one of the guides if we do not get any ice in our area.

There is a system to fish that lake and it requires drilling and moving which I am not used to doing.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: bus33 on Jan 10, 2019, 07:47 AM
Quick report....I went to CL yesterday.  You are very limited on the big lake with the open water.  I hit the little lake and it had 10 inches everywhere I drilled on the north side.  Couldn’t keep the 2-4 inch perch off my line....very annoying.  Anyway, for anyone thinking about going, be careful on the big lake and you should be good to go on the little lake.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Dave R on Jan 10, 2019, 08:26 AM
Thanks for the report. My buddy and I were thinking of driving up from Des Moines on Saturday. Now wondering if it will be worth the trip.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bryfish84 on Jan 10, 2019, 08:40 PM
There should be plenty of ice this weekend. Out by Baptist camp also has plenty of good ice.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: frozen eyelet on Jan 13, 2019, 11:59 AM
Headed up next weekend.  Figured if Clear Lake was slow would bounce around to Silver, Rice and possibly Crystal depending on ice conditions.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: icyclone on Jan 14, 2019, 12:08 PM
Heading up there this next weekend, figure chasing yellow bass will be the best action, anybody had any luck? Haven't fished Clear Lake in at least 2 years
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: PhishinFil on Jan 14, 2019, 05:37 PM
We plan on driving there the last weekend. Any updates in ice quality would help my anxiety. Lol. Thanks
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Slabseek3r on Jan 14, 2019, 06:58 PM
Heading up there this next weekend, figure chasing yellow bass will be the best action, anybody had any luck? Haven't fished Clear Lake in at least 2 years
10 in of ice, and zero good fish yesterday. All dinky perch, eyes, and yellows.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bryfish84 on Jan 14, 2019, 07:03 PM
I’m heading up there next weekend, Friday and Saturday. Ice should be great with this weather ahead.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Wally Lindner on Feb 05, 2019, 05:50 PM
  Got on the ice yesterday after she firmed up from the meltdown. 17 inches and growing (sounded like a thunderstorm). Fishing was bad while the perch were active.  Once they went to bed it was as good as I have ever seen
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bryfish84 on Feb 05, 2019, 08:30 PM
  Got on the ice yesterday after she firmed up from the meltdown. 17 inches and growing (sounded like a thunderstorm). Fishing was bad while the perch were active.  Once they went to bed it was as good as I have ever seen

Night time bite?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: potatoe on Dec 10, 2019, 05:55 PM
Anyone trying Clear Lake soon
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Dave R on Dec 10, 2019, 06:46 PM
Clear Lake B&T did a live FB video this morning. Had 4" at the park  boat ramp and open water at another area. I'd give them a call.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Stellahound on Dec 10, 2019, 08:13 PM
I got the itch. Going to head up Saturday morning and try Clear Lake or somewhere near there. I will report back Sunday.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: tracksnorth on Dec 11, 2019, 09:57 AM
fished off lyn lorentzen as well as macintosh yesterday afternoon. 2-4 inches of good ice about a hundred meters out. lots of dink perch and walleye
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: potatoe on Dec 11, 2019, 07:00 PM
Looks like some fresh photos on FB, guys fishing today

I wish I had a better grasp how to fish this lake, I normally just catch nothing or the tiny perch
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: potatoe on Dec 14, 2019, 09:36 AM
Made the trip yesterday, it was pretty busy. I imagine today it will be very busy. Landed a Walleye early in the dark, then only small perch. Could not get away from the small perch

Had fun and drilled a few holes
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: OGCollard on Dec 18, 2019, 08:30 AM
Im headed up this weekend! I expect it to be quite busy but that will still be fun  ;D Hopefully I can get on some fish. Probably going to stay in the little lake.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SchlitzBeer on Dec 20, 2019, 12:13 PM
Are there any anowmobiles/atvs on the ice yet?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bryfish84 on Dec 21, 2019, 05:07 PM
Went out this morning. Got there about 8:40 and stayed till around 2. Between two guys we caught around 100 perch ranging from tiny to 8” and three walleye. Biggest being 14”. Hard to get away from the little perch. Every drop down had one the whole day. I guess it’s much better than being skunked. It doesn’t sound like the yellows have started yet.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SchlitzBeer on Dec 21, 2019, 09:25 PM
We went up last weekend and did about the same. We did catch 3 yellows. 2 small ones and one large one. We dropped the camera down and the yellows were not aggressive at all.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Bryfish84 on Dec 21, 2019, 11:09 PM
We went up last weekend and did about the same. We did catch 3 yellows. 2 small ones and one large one. We dropped the camera down and the yellows were not aggressive at all.
What part of the lake?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Dwedemeier on Dec 07, 2021, 09:59 AM
The lake locked up last night. Any chance people are walking on it by this weekend?
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: Agronomist_at_IA on Dec 07, 2021, 03:29 PM
Depends on temps....if it stays 10° F you could be in the bays/edges.
Title: Re: Clear Lake
Post by: SpoonieLuv on Dec 07, 2021, 03:46 PM
Heck maybe guys trying Thursday lol